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5th Grade
- Project
- 2 weeks
Elephant Ecosystem Explorers: Discovering Nature's Giants
Purpose
Embark on a journey to understand the vital role elephants play in their ecosystems by exploring their interactions with other species. Develop a deeper appreciation for biodiversity and ecological balance through hands-on activities and creative expression. This project encourages you to connect with real-world experts and environments, fostering a sense of responsibility and curiosity about wildlife conservation.
Learning goals
By the end of this project, you will understand the role elephants play in their ecosystems and how they interact with other species. You will explore the food chain and food web involving elephants, gaining insights into ecological relationships. You'll develop skills in research, creative expression, and digital storytelling through creating a diorama and digital presentation. Additionally, you'll engage in critical thinking and communication during group discussions and the exhibition of your work.
Standards
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.5.7: Conduct short research projects that use several sources to build knowledge through investigation of different aspects of a topic.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.5.4: Report on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking clearly at an understandable pace.
- NGSS - 5-LS2-1: Develop a model to describe the movement of matter among plants, animals, decomposers, and the environment.
Products
Create a detailed 3D diorama of an elephant's habitat, showcasing the diverse species and plants that interact with elephants. Develop a digital presentation or video to illustrate your understanding of elephants' ecological impact, using visuals and narration to highlight key concepts. Display your diorama and digital work in an 'Elephant Impact Art Gallery' for peers and teachers to explore and learn from your project insights.
Launch
Begin with an immersive storytelling session titled "Elephant Ecosystem Adventure," where you imagine the journey of an elephant through its habitat. As you listen, visualize the elephant encountering various species and facing different challenges. Use this experience to spark curiosity and questions about the role of elephants in their ecosystems. Engage in a brief discussion to share initial thoughts and predictions about what you will learn throughout the project.
Exhibition
Facilitate an 'Elephant Impact Art Gallery' in your classroom or school hallway, where you display your 3D dioramas and digital presentations. Invite peers, teachers, and family members to explore your work, asking questions and providing feedback on your insights into elephant ecosystems. Set up interactive stations where visitors can learn about the food chain and food web related to elephants, enhancing their understanding through your creative exhibits.
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
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| Activities |
Begin with an immersive storytelling session titled 'Elephant Ecosystem Adventure.' Visualize the journey of an elephant through its habitat and discuss your initial thoughts and predictions.
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Research the role of elephants in ecosystems by exploring various sources, including online articles and videos. Focus on their interactions with other species and their impact on their environment.
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Participate in a virtual tour or attend a guest speaker session with a local zoo or wildlife sanctuary to learn directly from experts about elephant behavior and their ecological roles.
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Engage in a group discussion to share insights and questions that arose during the virtual tour or guest speaker session.
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Start designing your 3D diorama by sketching a plan of an elephant's habitat. Identify the diverse species and plants to include and their roles in the ecosystem.
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| Deliverables |
1. A research summary outlining key findings about elephants' roles in ecosystems and their interactions with other species.
2. A detailed sketch plan for your 3D diorama, highlighting the elements to include and their ecological significance. |
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| Preparation | |||||
| Week 2 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Finalize your 3D diorama by constructing it using materials like clay, cardboard, and paint. Ensure it accurately represents an elephant's habitat and includes the species and plants you researched.
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Develop a digital presentation or video that highlights how elephants impact their ecosystems. Use visuals and narration to explain key points, focusing on the food chain and food web involving elephants.
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Practice presenting your digital presentation or video to a classmate or family member, receiving feedback on your clarity and content.
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Set up the 'Elephant Impact Art Gallery' in your classroom or hallway. Arrange your diorama and digital work for display, ensuring it's engaging and informative.
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Facilitate a gallery walk where you can view others' work and provide feedback. Use this opportunity to reflect on the different perspectives and insights into elephant ecosystems.
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed 3D diorama showcasing an elephant's habitat and its ecological interactions.
2. Digital presentation or video explaining elephants' roles in ecosystems, including visuals and narration. 3. Participation in the 'Elephant Impact Art Gallery' exhibition, displaying your diorama and digital presentation. |
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| Preparation | |||||