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4th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Nature's Balance Bonanza: Animals & Plants

Fang L
ESS.3.A
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 4th-grade students in exploring the intricate balance of nature through hands-on, real-world activities. By collaborating with community partners and immersing themselves in local ecosystems, students will deepen their understanding of how plants and animals contribute to ecological balance. Through reflective practices and creative projects, they will develop critical thinking, effective communication, and self-directed learning skills, ultimately fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging within their community.

Learning goals

Students will explore the interdependence of plants and animals within ecosystems, understanding how each contributes to maintaining balance. They will develop skills in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and effective communication through hands-on activities and peer interactions. By documenting their observations in nature journals and participating in reflective art projects, students will deepen their content expertise and academic mindset. Through collaboration with community partners and participation in exhibitions, they will connect classroom learning to real-world ecological issues, enhancing their sense of place and community engagement.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] ESS.3.A - Natural Resources
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

Students will create a series of short documentary videos that explore and highlight the balance between native species and their habitats within local ecosystems. They will also develop a nature journal documenting their observations of plant and animal interactions, noting patterns and changes over time. Additionally, students will produce reflective art projects with written reflections to express their understanding and emotional connections to ecosystem balance.

Launch

Kick off the project with 'Garden Guardians Day' at the local botanical garden, where students actively participate in planting native species. Engage them in hands-on learning about the critical role these plants play in supporting local ecosystems. Conclude the day with a guided discussion on biodiversity's importance, setting the stage for their exploration of nature's balance.

Exhibition

Organize a 'Balance in Nature Gallery Walk' where students display their reflective art projects and written reflections. Invite parents and community members to walk through and engage with the students' work. Screen the student-led documentary videos exploring local ecosystems, offering an interactive experience that highlights the balance between native species and their habitats.