Lesson+9



Lesson # 9 : What is the cost of exploration?

Description of lesson: In this lesson we will take our journeys around the world one step further and investigate potential costs of exploration. Maps and globes were created by explorers venturing into unknown territories and recording their findings. Today many scientists and research continue to make journeys into exciting destinations, along with individuals exploring the world for fun! But how has this affected our world? This lesson will introduce ideas of commerce, preservation, conservation and a deeper look a the human responsibility. In Class Assignment: What's in your suitcase? As a class we will talk about what you need to prepare for a trip? //(What you pack? What you bring with you? What you will bring back?)// Then we will brainstorm the environmental experiences you encounter on a trip. //(Did you fly there? Travel by foot or by boat? What activities will you explore on your trip?)// Then we will think about travel on the world scale. How do humans influence the environments and cultures they visit? What things do we take from the earth when we travel? Do we give anything back? How do we interact and change our surroundings and the people who live there. This brainstorming activity will prepare students for the homework assignment they will start working on and help them understand the purpose of the activity. Homework Assignment:  Students will create an investigative report on one of five given destinations from around the world. Using the skills and knowledge they have gained throughout the unit on maps and globes, they will take a deeper look at how these international locations have changed over time. Students will get 1 week to complete their report and will present their findings in class. See link for specific details on the assignment - **@http://craniumscrossing.tumblr.com/** Resources/materials needed: Computers, internet, encyclopedia or educational publications. See additional research materials on the shelf below! media type="custom" key="8682410" Technology reflection: By using Tumblr to outline the research assignment, students are provided with a very interactive medium to learn about their project. It also creates a motivation for creativity as they see how just outlining the requirements for an assignment can have different layers, images and ideas! The online research itself will continue to enhance the students internet research skills. Lastly, by putting together a multimedia presentation to report their findings, students will be given freedom to express themselves in the best way that fits them. Students will not be restricted to simply turn in a three page paper, rather will get to create an interactive and engaging presentation for everyone. Evaluation: My concern with this lesson is time. Since this is a 4th grade class, I am unsure if a week is enough time to put together this type of layered project all on their own at home. It may need to be something we work on in class a few days with more structured assignment. For example, I could create a presentation template for students to use to create their report. I think by giving them a little more structure it may allow them to focus on the research and think creatively about what they want to add or change to the presentation. Additionally, it would cut down on the time of the project as a whole.