Science, Investigate, Apply, Analyze, Collaborate, Communicate

4th Grade Life Science, Explore Learning Gizmos Simulation, School Fusion Classroom Blog

In a culminating activity on food chains on the Prairie, student teams will predict how the food chain of hawks, snakes, rabbits and grass will change when one item in the chain becomes ill using graphic organizer Inspiration. The student teams will predict the effect of the food chain when one of the item in the chain is suddenly reduced in numbers. Students will then test their predictions using the Explore Learning Food Chain Gizmo. As they test their predictions, student teams will collect data from Explore Learning in the form of images, and charts that will be placed in a presentation created in Animoto. Student teams will create their own question to investigate and share that information on the class blog. Student teams will then share their thoughts of how other food chains would work- ie Ocean

Procedure:
1) Identify student teams and roles
2) Student teams will use Inspiration to record predictions of how the food chain of hawks, snakes, rabbits and grass will change when one item in the chain becomes ill and when one of the item in the chain is suddenly reduced in numbers.
3) Students will log into ExploreLearning with their student account
4) Student teams will explore the Food Chain simulation testing their predictions
5) Student teams will collect visuals and numeric data during the testing of their predicitons
6) Student teams will use this information in Animoto to explain their findings
7 ) Students will come up with their own question to explore and collect the results.
8) Students will post their question and findings on the class blog (School Fusion Classroom Blog) using appropriate writing skills

Essential Skills and Concepts (Intermediate): L: Uses an effective writing process, Uses writing as a tool for learning, Incorporates technology as a tool to enhance writing M: Represent and analyze data using tallies, pictographs, tables, line plots, bar graphs, circle graphs and line graphs, Propose and justify conclusions and predictions based on data S: Generate questions that can be answered through scientific investigations, Use appropriate tools and techniques to gather, process, and analyze data, Incorporate mathematics in science inquiries, Use evidence to develop reasonable explanations, Communicate scientific procedures and explanations, Understand and demonstrate knowledge of structures, characteristics, and adaptations of organisms that allow them to function and survive within their habitats, Understand and demonstrate knowledge of how individual organisms are influenced by internal and external factors T: Use technology resources to create original products, identify patterns and problems, make predictions, and propose solutions, Use interactive technologies in a collaborative group to produce digital presentations or products in a curricular area, Utilize digital tools and resources to investigate real-world issues, answer questions, or solve problems E: Communicate and work productively with others emphasizing collaboration and cultural awareness to produce quality work, Adjust to various roles and responsibilities and understand the need to be flexible to change, Practice leadership skills, and demonstrate integrity, ethical behavior, and social responsibility in all activities, Demonstrate initiative, creativity, self-direction, and entrepreneurial thinking to produce successful outcomes, Demonstrates productivity and accountability by producing quality work.