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3rd Grade  Project 2 weeks

Wildlife Wonders: Traits and Tales!

Elizabeth G
LS.3.B
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse third-grade students in a dynamic exploration of animal traits and their significance in survival, fostering a deeper understanding of biological diversity. Through engaging activities like role-playing, mural creation, and digital presentations, students will develop critical thinking, self-directed learning, and effective communication skills. The project encourages students to connect with their community and environment, enhancing their academic mindset and content expertise while meeting Next Generation Science Standards.

Learning goals

Students will explore the variation of traits in animals and understand how these traits help them meet their basic needs, aligning with the Next Generation Science Standards. They will develop self-directed learning skills by using feedback to enhance their understanding and presentation of animal traits. Through creating and presenting a collaborative mural, students will build academic mindsets, critical thinking, and effective communication skills, while engaging with community partners to deepen their content expertise.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.3.B - Variation of Traits
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Throughout the project, students will collaboratively create a class mural that visually represents the key animal traits studied, showcasing their understanding of how these traits help animals meet their basic needs. Additionally, students will develop digital presentations or infographics comparing the traits of different animals, which will be used during the 'Gallery Walk' and 'Nature's Gallery Walk' exhibitions. By the end of the project, students will role-play as animals in a 'Living Museum,' presenting their unique traits and survival strategies to classmates and invited guests.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Creature Feature Film Fest,' where students watch curated YouTube videos showcasing various animals and their unique traits. Following the screenings, facilitate group discussions to explore how these traits are essential for survival, encouraging students to connect with the content and consider the essential question. This activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration into the variation of traits.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Nature's Gallery Walk' to showcase their mural contributions, inviting classmates, teachers, and community members to explore the artistic representations of animal traits. Each student will explain their artistic choices and the survival strategies depicted, fostering an engaging dialogue about their learning process. This exhibition provides a platform for students to demonstrate their understanding and communicate effectively with empathy and clarity.