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Instructional Goals:
-Students will use a variety of resources in the library
-Students will learn basic world geography
-Students will participate in a collaborative effort
-Students will have a better knowledge of the research process
Learning Objectives:
-Fourth and Fifth grade students will learn the names and locations of 7 continents, 7 major mountain ranges, and 7 oceans and seas on Earth
-Fourth and Fifth grade students will use the OPAC to find information relevant to 3 geographic features on Earth
-Fourth and Fifth grade students will compose a paragraph about 3 geographic features on Earth
-Fourth and Fifth grade students will participate through discussion
Motivational Goals:
-Students will have an interest in different areas of the world
-Students will build and maintain confidence in their research ability through chunking
-Students will have choices so as to maintain interest in the process
-Students will work in many situations to accommodate their learning styles -Students will be motivated to continue information exploration as a result of the final product
-Fictional map of library
-Fictional signs around library
-Map of world
-Brainstorming: chalkboard, white board, flip chart, etc.
-Citation aid
-Access to computer
-Book template with questions
-Writing utensils
-Copy Machine
-World worksheet
This lesson will probably take four 30 minute periods.
SESSION 1 Introduction:
-Students enter the library and are given a map to follow. This map is of the library with geographic labels (see visual map). The LMS serves as a tour guide until the class reaches its classroom. (5 minutes)
Body:
-After the students have sat down ask the students questions like: Was that fun? Do you know why it is important to know where things are in the library? Do you think it might be important to know where places are on Earth? Can anyone think of geographic features that you know (to ascertain knowledge)? Show a map so students can physically identify places that they know. (5 minutes)
-Give an overview of the research task.
1. Students will research a continent,
2. Students will write a paragraph including interesting facts, 3.Students will follow the same process for a mountain range,
4. Students will follow the same process for an ocean or sea,
5. Students will type their final paragraphs on the computer using a template (see book template). Then to motivate the students tell them about how all their hard work is going to produce a book.
-Go over possible resources for the project including the reference section. Do not forget to remind students to fill out citation cards (see citation card). (5 minutes)
-After laying out the task, brainstorm ideas of what students will include in their paragraphs. Select those ideas that are most relevant to the assignment. (5 minutes)
Conclusion:
-Students will begin their own research to answer brainstormed thoughts. (10 minutes)
SESSION 2 Introduction:
-Summarize that students are to be finishing their research during the period and writing their paragraphs. Hand out a task list with questions to be answered on each topic, generated from the brainstorming activity. (3 minutes)
Body:
-Students will begin their own research to answer brainstormed thoughts. (8 minutes)
-The LMS will circulate through the students and help where assistance is needed.
-Encourage students as they compose their paragraphs. (12 minutes)
Conclusion:
-Collect all finished paragraphs from students. If the students are not done,
ask them to bring them in the next day or they will not be able to participate in the book. (2 minutes)
-As the LMS, compile all of the paragraphs and make any necessary corrections. Print a copy for each student. (outside of class time)
SESSION 3 Introduction:
Gush about the great book that the students have created and hand out a copy to every student. Allow them to move to a comfortable reading area. (3 minutes)
Body:
-Make sure each student has enough time to read the book and to think about the discussion questions on the last page (see book template). (15 minutes) -Discuss the questions from the book and any other questions that arise. Promote critical thinking while encouraging students. (10 minutes)
Conclusion:
Thank the students for their efforts on this project and tell how the book will be available to check out from the library. Show a cataloged copy of the book as proof. (2 minutes)
Optional:
-Collaborate with the Social Studies teacher to allow class time for writing paragraphs.
-Collaborate with the Language Arts teacher and have the students type their paragraphs on the computer using the book template.
-Labeling the World Worksheet
1.Students will be divided into groups of three. (You may want to do this as they enter the classroom.) Each student will be given a worksheet (see worksheet) and each group will be given a map of the world. The students must then label the continents and oceans and seas. They must also number major mountain ranges. The tasks may be broken down so that each group member fills in one category.
2.Go over the final answers by calling on students and make sure that each map is correct. Reveal a finished product.
