1-Pager
8th Grade  Project 2 weeks

"Ocean Safari: Dive into Sea Secrets!"

Mariana M
MS-LS1-4
LS.2.C
LS.2.A
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

Dive into the fascinating world of ocean animals by exploring how they adapt to their unique environments. Through hands-on activities and creative projects, you'll uncover the secrets of marine life and their survival strategies. This journey will enhance your understanding of ecosystems while developing critical thinking and self-directed learning skills. Engage in meaningful reflection and share your newfound knowledge with others, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

Learning goals

Your learning goals are to understand how ocean animals adapt to their environments and how these adaptations affect their survival and reproduction. You will use scientific reasoning to explore the interdependent relationships within ocean ecosystems. Additionally, you will develop skills in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving by reflecting on your learning process and creating a children's book that communicates your insights to a younger audience.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS1-4 - Use argument based on empirical evidence and scientific reasoning to support an explanation for how characteristic animal behaviors and specialized plant structures affect the probability of successful reproduction of animals and plants respectively.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.2.C - Ecosystem Dynamics, Functioning, and Resilience
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.2.A - Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems
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.

Products

Throughout this project, you'll create a personal reflection journal to document your learning journey and emotional responses. By the end, you'll produce a children's book that narrates the journey of an ocean animal, highlighting its adaptations and challenges. You'll have the opportunity to share your book with a younger audience, bringing your story to life and inspiring others with your insights.

Launch

Dive into the 'Deep Sea Exploration Workshop' by creating models of ocean animals using craft materials. Showcase your models to peers, highlighting the unique adaptations of each animal. Engage in discussions to explore how these adaptations help the animals survive in their environments.

Exhibition

Organize an "Ocean Animal Storytime" event where you present your illustrated children's books to a younger audience, such as a local elementary school class or community library group. Invite peers, teachers, and family members to attend and engage with the stories. Set up a display area featuring your reflection journals and models from the Deep Sea Exploration Workshop, allowing visitors to explore your learning journey and provide feedback. This exhibition not only showcases your creative work but also fosters a sense of community and shared learning.