Wildlife Wonders: Traits and Tales!

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3	Day 4
Activities	Creature Feature Film Fest Launch - Introduce the project by watching curated YouTube videos showcasing various animals and their unique traits. Engage students in group discussions to explore how these traits are essential for survival, encouraging connections to the essential question. (45 min)	Animal Trait Exploration - In small groups, students use Epic books to gather information on different animal traits, focusing on how these traits help animals survive. Students will take notes and prepare to share their findings. (45 min)	Digital Presentation Workshop - Students collaborate in their groups to create digital presentations or infographics that compare the traits of different animals. They will use information gathered from YouTube videos and Epic books. (45 min)	Mural Planning and Reflection - Begin planning the collaborative class mural. Students discuss key animal traits studied and how they want to visually represent them. Reflect on their individual learning and socio-emotional connections through art and teamwork. (45 min)
Deliverables	1. Students will complete group discussions connecting animal traits to survival strategies following the 'Creature Feature Film Fest'. 2. Each group will start creating a section of the collaborative class mural, focusing on one animal and its traits. 3. Students will gather information on animal traits using Epic Books, taking notes to share with their peers. 4. Initial drafts of digital presentations or infographics comparing the traits of different animals will be prepared. 5. Complete a peer review session to provide and receive feedback on mural contributions and digital materials.
Preparation	1. Curate a selection of age-appropriate YouTube videos about various animals and their traits for the 'Creature Feature Film Fest'. 2. Gather art supplies such as large poster paper, paints, markers, and collage materials for the mural project. 3. Arrange access to Epic Books or other digital reading platforms for students to research animal traits. 4. Prepare digital devices or arrange computer lab time for students to create presentations or infographics. 5. Set up a space in the classroom for the 'Living Museum' and 'Gallery Walk' rehearsals.

Week 2	Day 5	Day 6	Day 7	Day 8
Activities	Mural Creation and Reflection Session - Students begin working on their contributions to the collaborative mural, using their understanding of key animal traits. They will reflect on their artistic choices and discuss how these traits help animals meet their basic needs. (45 min)	Gallery Walk Rehearsal - Host a practice session where students explain their mural contributions to classmates, who will provide feedback for improvement. Focus on enhancing the clarity and depth of explanations. (25 min) Peer Review and Revision - Students use feedback from the rehearsal to refine their mural explanations and ensure their understanding of animal traits is clearly communicated. (20 min)	Living Museum Role-Play Preparation - Students choose an animal to role-play, develop a brief presentation highlighting the animal's traits and survival strategies, and practice with peers. (30 min) Reflection and Self-Assessment - Students reflect on their learning journey, considering feedback received, and assess their growth in understanding animal traits and effective communication. (15 min)	Nature's Gallery Walk Exhibition - Students present their mural contributions and role-play as animals in a 'Living Museum' format to visiting classes and community members, showcasing their understanding of animal traits and survival strategies. (45 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete the collaborative class mural, ensuring it visually represents the key animal traits studied. 2. Finalize and practice digital presentations or infographics about animal traits for the 'Gallery Walk' rehearsal. 3. Participate in a peer review session to refine mural contributions and presentation skills. 4. Role-play as animals during the 'Living Museum,' presenting unique traits and survival strategies. 5. Host the 'Nature's Gallery Walk,' where students explain their artistic choices and animal traits in the mural to visitors. 6. Reflect on the project experience through a class discussion or written reflection, considering feedback from peers and visitors.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for the 'Living Museum' role-play, including animal costumes or props that students can use to represent their chosen animals. 2. Ensure all digital presentations or infographics are ready for the 'Gallery Walk' rehearsal by checking the functionality of any tech equipment needed, such as projectors and computers. 3. Prepare the materials needed for mural completion, including art supplies like paints, brushes, large paper or canvas, and any necessary protective coverings for tables. 4. Coordinate with community members or other classes to visit the 'Nature's Gallery Walk' and the 'Living Museum.' 5. Set up a space for the 'Nature's Gallery Walk' and ensure it is appropriately arranged for the mural display and easy movement of visitors. 6. Organize any additional seating and sound requirements for student presentations during the exhibitions.