Summary
For a unit on public speaking with the theme of Greek mythology, students first researched the 14 major gods and goddesses. For research, they used online sources, at least one book or encyclopedia, and one magazine article provided by the teacher. Students then randomly chose a god or goddess to represent and a god or goddess to present an award . Each student then used children’s engineering techniques to create a 3-dimensional award that could be presented publicly to the recipient at what we called the Temple of Charity’s Greek Grammy Awards. The award had to relate to the receiving god or goddess’s powers or abilities, but the reason (such as sheltering children in a house during the storm of the century) could b made up. Students were then taught guidelines for both presenting and receiving gifts publicly, and wrote short presentation for their acceptance speeches on index cards. After reviewing tapes of similar speeches, students practiced with partners. Parents and school administrators were then invited to attend (as “mere mortals”) this once in a lifetime chance to see all of these famous Greek gods and goddesses in one place. At the awards students demonstrated their public speaking skills.
TIPC Ratings
This lesson falls in approaching range. Students had good choices of research materials and had to synthesize information in an organized way. Students did not rate or evaluate their sources which is why it is developing stage.
This lesson falls in the approaching stage. Students had to speak publicly when visitors came to visit them. Students did not utilize online tools to communicate beyond their classroom which is why it remains at developing.
This lesson falls in the ideal stage. Students needed to synthesize the research and think of the best reason(s) to accept their award.
This lesson falls in the approaching range. Students created their own 3-D engineering projects and poster boards. The work was original. The work had limitations and did not include many technology choices which is why it remains at developing.
