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11th, 12th, 10th Grades
- Project
- 1 week
Marine Mammal Mystery Adventure!
Purpose
The purpose of this project is to engage students in an in-depth exploration of marine mammals, fostering a deeper understanding of their characteristics, behaviors, and ecological significance. Through interactive activities and collaborative research, students will develop critical thinking and presentation skills as they create and share multimedia presentations. This project aims to inspire curiosity and potential interest in marine biology or environmental science, encouraging students to consider the impact of their knowledge on future actions and career paths.
Learning goals
Students will explore and understand the diverse characteristics and behaviors of marine mammals, identifying key groups and species. They will develop research and collaboration skills by engaging in a team-based 'Marine Mammal Mystery Hunt.' Through creating a multimedia presentation, students will enhance their ability to communicate scientific information effectively. Reflective journaling will encourage students to connect their learning to personal interests and potential career paths in marine biology or environmental science.
Standards
- NGSS - HS-LS2-8: Evaluate the evidence for the role of group behavior on individual and species’ chances to survive and reproduce.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.4: Present information, findings, and supporting evidence clearly, concisely, and logically such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question or solve a problem.
Products
Throughout the project, students will create a series of digital artifacts, including infographics and short video clips, that highlight the unique features and behaviors of various marine mammals. By the end of the week, students will compile these artifacts into a comprehensive multimedia presentation that they will showcase to their classmates. Additionally, students will maintain a reflective journal documenting their evolving understanding and insights gained from the project, which will serve as a personal record of their learning journey.
Launch
Begin the project with a dynamic 'Marine Mammal Mystery Hunt' where students are divided into teams to solve a series of engaging clues. Each clue leads to information about different marine mammals, uncovering their unique characteristics and behaviors. This interactive activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration throughout the week, fostering teamwork and critical thinking from the outset.
Exhibition
To conclude the project, students will host a "Marine Mammal Expo" where they present their multimedia projects to peers, teachers, and invited community members. Each team will set up a booth displaying their findings, complete with interactive elements like models or digital infographics. This exhibition will provide an opportunity for students to engage with the audience, answer questions, and discuss the significance of marine mammals and their conservation.
Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
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Activities |
Project Introduction and Essential Question - Introduce the project, sharing the essential question about marine mammals and discussing the week's objectives (15 min)
Marine Mammal Mystery Hunt - Students work in teams to solve clues related to various marine mammals, discovering key characteristics and behaviors (30 min)
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Introduction to Marine Mammals - Explore the main groups and characteristics of marine mammals through interactive digital resources (20 min)
Research Skill Building - Guide students in researching specific marine mammals, focusing on their habitats and adaptations (25 min)
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Team Research and Collaboration - Teams select a marine mammal to research in-depth, gathering information on its behavior and ecological role (45 min)
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Multimedia Presentation Creation - Teams begin creating digital artifacts, such as infographics and video clips, to include in their presentations (25 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Teams exchange drafts with peers for constructive feedback, refining their presentations (20 min)
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Final Presentation Preparation - Teams finalize multimedia presentations, incorporating peer feedback and ensuring clarity and creativity (30 min)
Reflective Journaling - Students reflect on their learning journey, considering how their understanding of marine mammals has evolved (15 min)
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Deliverables |
1. Completed multimedia presentation showcasing the group's assigned marine mammal, including infographics and video clips.
2. Reflective journal entries documenting students' evolving understanding and insights about marine mammals. |
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Preparation |
1. Prepare and print the 'Marine Mammal Mystery Hunt' clues and materials.
2. Ensure access to computers or tablets for research and digital artifact creation. 3. Gather research materials such as books, articles, and online resources on marine mammals. 4. Provide multimedia creation tools like graphic design software and video editing applications. 5. Set up the classroom for the 'Marine Mammal Expo,' including tables and display areas for each group. |