Summary
I met with my ITRT and discussed my desire of having students research and really stretch their critical thinking cross ciricularly. After batting a few ideas around we decided that students love to play hide and seek so why not hide some answers and let them seek for the answers. Ernie was created (which is the real name of the ITRT’s brother) and the game began with the introduction to the students about their task. My blog will serve as our main communication center; however, Skyping and phone calls were decided as communication tools by the students. Ernie began the game by going to a simple place that the students have studied and gave clues via the blog. Students had to discuss with me and research using different tools such as the internet, maps, globes, and books. When the students felt they knew where Ernie was they blogged again (they were able to ask questions via the blog if they needed more clues) and asked. Ernie would send pictures on the blog which prompted more questions. This continued going around the world to different spots related to items the students were studying such as animals and weather. The scenario was then changed to spice things up. Students gave Ernie clues on where they wanted him to go. Students researched to generate clues and gave these clues through a Skype session with Ernie. Now Ernie had to research using these clues and travel to these places. This lesson is still taking place because there are so many places to visit.
TIPC Ratings
This lesson falls in the ideal range for Research and Information. Students were given a safe search engine but needed to find their own sites that were appropriate and also use other sources such as books and people. Research was written online for others to view and share. Also part of the form was an area for students to cite their sources and indicate whether or not they thought it was a good cite for others to use. Others could look at this recommendation and determine if they would use it or not.
This lesson falls in the the ideal range for Communication and Collaboration. Students communicated within a large group and within smaller groups, which they was chosen themselves. Students also used digital tools, such as Google tools and web tools to communicate their ideas and solutions. Students had to work together as a whole group and sub groups and offer ideas and also compromise with their group members.
This lesson falls in the ideal range for Critical Thinking and Problem Solving. Students had to think about solutions that had more than one right answer. Students had to generate questions in order to find the right solution for their task. The students had to take risks because their task was part of a bigger task and had to represent others not just themselves. Sometimes the problem was never solved but more questions were presented which posed some difficulties. A solution was always worked out by the students.
This lesson falls in the ideal range for Creativity and Innovation. Students were given complete freedom to choose what areas of their ancient civilization to highlight and the way their ancient civilization would look. Students had a wide range of materials and original artiffacts were created such as columns, pottery, clothing, posters. Technology was used to help find pictures of these items for samples, and posers were created along with sign to label the work. A movie was created to document and share the day and the civilizations. Reflection was given so students could improve on all their work.
Student Artifact
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Download Files
Where in the World is Ernie?
Contents:
- Lesson Plan
- Comemory clues Link
- Skype videos
- Blog Link
- Student Pixie samples
