The Last Great Race

Lesson Summary

Second grade students immerse themselves in The Last Great Race on Earth, the Iditarod. They learn about the history of the race and the importance of dogs. Then, with a favorite musher in mind, students track the race from beginning to end. Through each stop, as the weather pushes on, mushers show grit and determination to finish strong. Next, students assume the role of a dog as part of his or her sled team, writing feelings before and after the race, with a careful comparison to how they themselves would feel if placed in the same position.

TIPC Ratings

Research & Information Fluency

Rating: Approaching – Explanation: Students utilized a mix of books and electronic materials to research a musher of choice, the route of the Iditarod, and the state of Alaska. Students constructed their own questions to guide research and assembled their information to address the tasks at hand.

Communication & Collaboration

Rating: Ideal – Explanation: The teacher formatively assessed tasks while students engaged in communication and collaboration surrounding their mushers and the race in general. Students collaborated with each other and participated in digital communication with experts in Alaska at the race.

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

Rating: Developing – Explanation: Students were asked to think critically and solve problems when coding in order to complete the map of travel through the Iditarod race.

Creativity & Innovation

Rating: Ideal – Explanation: The teacher creates an environment where students are fully engaged with the desire to continue research and investigation beyond the classroom.