As we complete our unit of study, "Diversity of Living Things", Students will begin an end of unit project that requires students to research and present their findings on an endangered or threatened species in Manitoba. Alternatively, they can research a species that may also pose a threat or risk to other species (an invasive species), example being Blue-Green Algae in Lake Winnipeg. The species they select can be from any of the Kingdoms studied in class:
1. Plantae
2. Animalia
3. Monera
4. Protista
5. Fungi
Students are required to summarize their findings from a minimum of three different but credible sources of information. Sources of information can be from books, news clippings, interviews, credible web sites etc. Some general information they should have from their summarizing should consider answering the following questions:
1. What kingdom does it belong to?
2. What are its physical characteristics?
3. Describe its habitat and its range or area it may live in.
4. How is it adapted to its environment?
5. How does it interact with other species in its habitat?
6. What is its niche or job in its habitat and/or why is it important?
7. Why is it at risk or causing other species to be at risk?
8. What is being done or should be done about the situation?
Students will present their findings in a presentation using a form of technology, such as Photo-Story, Power Point or Movie Maker, to inform the rest of the grade six class of their findings. Their presentation should also include a table and a line graph of their results. They are also required to find a creative way to present their learning by presenting the information in the form of a story, song, poem, diorama, news story, board game, poster and/or any other creative means. Due dates will be announced for each stage. This is a home project that will require students use time management skills. Please click on the following links to acess learning targets for each phase of this project.
Students will be evaluated on:
1. Research skills
a. Summarizing
b. citing their sources in bibliography format
2. Writing Process
Phase 1 of research, summarizing and completing a bibliography is due on Thursday Dec 10th 2009. If you have questions or concerns please contact me at gswintak@pembinatrails.ca
