2nd Grade  Project 4 weeks

"Life's Web: Creatures Connect!"

Elsa F
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.3
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.7
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.2.5
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

Students will explore the interconnectedness of living things by engaging in hands-on activities that highlight the relationships between plants and animals in their local environment. They will observe, document, and create small habitats, fostering a deeper understanding of ecological systems. Through collaborative projects and guided reflection, students will develop critical thinking skills, enhance their self-directed learning, and build a strong sense of identity and belonging within their community.

Learning goals

Students will explore the interdependence of plants and animals in their local environment by observing and documenting interactions in nature. They will design and build a small habitat that supports diverse living organisms, applying critical thinking to address the needs of different species. Through self-directed learning, students will use feedback and reflection to deepen their understanding of ecological relationships and develop a sense of belonging and identity within their community.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.3 - Describe the connection between a series of historical events, scientific ideas or concepts, or steps in technical procedures in a text.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.2.7 - Explain how specific images (e.g., a diagram showing how a machine works) contribute to and clarify a text.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.2.5 - Demonstrate understanding of word relationships and nuances in word meanings.
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

Students will collaboratively design and construct a mini-ecosystem in a terrarium, showcasing the interdependence of plants and animals. They will create detailed diagrams and labels to illustrate the interactions and communication among the living things within their habitat. Additionally, students will compile a reflective journal documenting their observations, self-assessments, and insights gained throughout the project. These products will be shared in a class exhibition, allowing students to explain their creations and learning process to peers and visitors.

Launch

Begin the project with a nature walk around the schoolyard or a nearby park. Encourage students to observe and take notes on the different plants and animals they encounter, focusing on how these living things might interact or depend on one another. Back in the classroom, facilitate a discussion where students share their observations and brainstorm ideas for creating a small habitat that could support the needs of the living things they've seen. Use this activity to introduce the essential questions and set the stage for the project.

Exhibition

Students will design and present a small-scale habitat model that demonstrates the interdependence of plants and animals. They will create informative displays using diagrams and images to explain the interactions within their habitat, ensuring they clarify the connections between living things. Each student will share their learning journey, including challenges and discoveries, through a reflective presentation to classmates, teachers, and family members. This exhibition will also include a peer feedback session, encouraging students to engage in critical reflection and further their understanding of ecological relationships.