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How We Did It
Each student chose an individual insect to study. Students were then divided into groups of 3 with one adult as facilitator/instructor. Each student receiveddirect instruction on each element of the project. The project was started in April and was the primary focus for the remainder of the school year.
The students created agendas on calendars to schedule task completion. They also used graphic organizers such as webs, charts and diagrams to record and organize the information gained from research. The criteria for grading and task completion was individualized for each child, depending on the student's grade and levels of development/achievement
Insect Project
This project involves working with a teacher to complete nine different assignments about one specific kind of insect. You will choose your insect from the attached list. Read the entire project carefully before you begin. Use the attached calendar to create a plan for completing all nine tasks. Also, read the attached grading checklist so that you understand how you will be graded.
The insect I have chosen is ________________.
Grade Checklist
-
Writing (report)_____________
- Math(story problems)___________
- Social Studies(map)_____________
- Speaking (oral report)___________
- Science( habitat, body diagram, helpful/harmful chart)___________
1.Report
Use the resources available in the media center to create a well-organized research report on your insect. Be sure to include things like habitat, diet, physical characteristics and interactions with people.
Other requirements are listed below:
- 1st grade- 1 paragraph, title page and reference list
- 2nd grade- 2 paragraphs, title page and reference list
- 3rd grade- 3 paragraphs, title page and bibliography
- 4th grade - 4 paragraphs, title page and bibliography
2. Slide Show
After completing your report, create a slide show in the computer lab that summarizes your report. You must have at least 6 slides.
3. Body Part Diagram
Create a picture of your insect and label the body parts.
Include:
* head
* abdomen
* thorax
* proboscis
* eyes and ears
* antennae
* legs
4. Map
- Grades 1 and 2 - Color the regions on a world map that show where your insect could live.
- Grades 3 and 4 - Determine the weather conditions your insect needs to be active and thriving. Identify what seasons provide those conditions. Color code a world map to show what time of year your insect is active in each region. Make a key to go with your map.
5. Habitat
Create a 3-D model of your insect's natural habitat, (nest). You may make a diorama, sculpture or use papier-mache.
Be creative and informative.
6. Helpful/Harmful Chart
Create a chart with 2 columns. Label one column, helpful, and the other column harmful. In each column, list ways that your insect is helpful and harmful to people.
7. Story Problems
Write 3 math story problems that have to do with your insect. Use the operations below:
- 1st and 2nd grades=addition and subtraction
- 3rd & 4th grades=multiplication and division
8. Game or Puzzle
Create a game or puzzle that is fun to play, yet still teaches the player about your insect. You may want to make a board game or a matching game. You may also choose to make a puzzle, such as a word search or a crossword puzzle.
9. Oral Report
You have up to 5 minutes to talk to your classmates about your project. You may read your report if you choose. You may also show and discuss the other parts of your project as well. Remember to practice, practice, practice before you speak to the class.