Summary
The students are instructed that they are reporters and have to report on one of eight key events that led the country into and out of the American Revolution. I introduce them to the “5Ws” and that their task, ultimately, is to educate their classmates on their event. The highest order of critical thinking for this project is the “what” the kids have to assess. The “what” is not merely telling us “what” happened but, most importantly, expressing “what” is the significance of the event. Why is it so important and worth reporting? How is it impacting our lives today? The rest of the “5Ws” are simple research and filtering through the basic information to report the essential information. This project scores higher in the areas of collaboration and communication and creativity because there were no parameters set on how they conveyed their report. They could choose a skit and/or a factual presentation. If they chose a presentation there were no limitations to what 21st century technology or application they could use. Most chose things they were familiar with though two kids created an animation which was really cool. In this way they were creating original, meaningful work within a scoring rubric.
TIPC Ratings
Students were given the topic to research but they went out on their own to find the information using search techniques discussed in previous classes and from instruction given by the librarian. They were given the opportunity to research online and used primary source documents, depending on what they felt was most appropriate for their research.
Students selected their own groups and assigned their own roles to complete the assignment. Groups used Google docs to collect and compile the information they gathered about their topic.
Students used their critical thinking and problem solving skills to solve problems in their class assignments. They also responded to higher order thinking questions and generated their own questions to guide their research and what should be included in their final presentation.
Students created meaningful, original works reflecting their topic they researched. Some topics were presented as skits, online videos, and PowerPoint presentations.
Student Artifact
Boston Massacre (Completed) by MusicLoverBe on GoAnimate
Animation Software – Powered by GoAnimate.
Download Files
- Lesson Plan
- Lesson Introduction Presentation
- Rubric 1
- Rubric 2
