Spark Creativity-Create a New Species!

Have you ever seen an Elementos?  Do you have a pet Clockfish to keep you on schedule?  Would you like to see an exotic and rare Kizumari?  Well, chances are unless you are able to transport into the imagination of a child, you never will!

As the school year winds down, I am searching for ways to make these last few days exciting, engaging, and dare I say, FUN! Wait a minute! Every day should be like this!  We threw out the science books and put on our creativity hats (mom included!).  

I thought it would be great to have everyone create their own species complete with details about the species' habitat and ecosystem as a culminating project for our science unit.  I gave little instruction other than the following inclusions:

Species: name, physical description, special adaptations, food source

Habitat: location, physical description

Ecosystem: location, physical description including climate and vegetation

In addition, each species had to include its predators (if any) and an explanation as to whether it was a producer, primary consumer, or secondary consumer.  The only requirement is that everything be completely fictitious and highly creative!  The finished product needed to include a drawing of the species in their ecosystem.  

I have to say both the kids and I were excited about this project.  It serves as a great alternative assessment tool while sparking the imagination.  With the exception of our math and world history lessons, this integrated activity served as language arts and science for the week.  Teachers and homeschooling parents alike can feel confident they are covering "necessary skills."  Once again, prepare to be blown away by the mind of a child! 

Science Skills

• ecosystem, habitat, predator, producer, primary consumer, secondary consumer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, climate, food web 

Language Arts Skills

• writing, oral presentation skills, creative expression, grammar

 Computer Skills 

• typing, research, internet navigation, word processing programs (Google Docs), online drawing utilities like Scratch or Gimp 

Misc. Skills

• art, imagination, communication

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Example: from our 11 year old

"In the depths of time, over a million years ago...a planet...from the Yuhai solar system was formed.  It was called Kanishiwah.  On this planet, in a remote corner, there was a small island, Kuhlahyklii.

Kuhlahyklii is filled with many rare species of animals, lush rainforests, mountains, and even grasslands.  One particular species, however, is my favorite.  Are you ready?  Drum roll please!  The Kizumari.  These creatures live in the tropical rainforest of Abilikke.  Below is their important information.

Species: Kizumari

Adult Height:     4 ft

Adult Length: 3.5 ft

Habitat: Abilikke rainforest

Energy Source: Yuhi (the sun) gives energy to the ribbon wrapped around it's tail.

Diet: Omnivore- fruit from the jublie tree, small animals like snakiflutters, bwablo flowers, and kishi.  

The Kizumari are unique in that they are both a producer and a consumer.  Part of their energy comes from Yuhi, or the sun, making them producers.  However, they cannot rely on that energy source alone.  They are secondary consumers because they do need essential vitamins and minerals from the snakiflutters and bwalbo flowers.

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As you can see, this activity really spans many content areas.  The child is limited by their own imagination. Over the summer, our eleven year old plans to create a digital representation of her species using Scratch or Gimp.  Can't wait!  So, throw out the books, open your imaginations and spark creativity in your teaching and learning.  Most importantly, let go and have fun! 

The Quest For the Perfect Science Curriculum

As one school year comes to a close, I have turned my attention towards the next.  My first priority is to decide which science program to implement for our study of earth science and astronomy.  As many homeschooling families are aware there is a shortage of quality science programs.  My goal is to find a program that is hands-on, scientifically accurate, promotes critical thinking, and fuels a passion for learning.  Not too much to ask, right? 

For the past two years, we have been pleased with R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey by Pandia Press.  I am considering continuing with their Earth/Space program for our younger children, however,  I need a greater challenge for our 5th/6th grader.  They currently only offer Level 1 courses which typically covers grades 1-4.  For this reason, I have begun an investigation for alternatives or for materials to supplement the Level 1 program.  I'd like to share with you some of the programs I have found so far on this quest.

R.E.A.L. Science Odyssey

Let's begin with the program we are currently using.  The team at Pandia Press as done a fantastic job of bringing science to life for young children.  Each lesson is presented in a story-format presenting concepts in an accurate, yet entertaining manner.  This program does not shy away from "big terms" and uses accurate scientific vocabulary throughout the lesson.  Following the text are correlating hands-on activities in which the concept can be further investigated.  Throughout the entire program, students are asked to conjecture, observe, interpret plots and graphs, perform age-appropriate math calculations and draw conclusions based upon what they have read and explored. 

We just finished the Chemistry Level 1 program and I am amazed at what our children learned.  They begged to do science each day and could not wait for the labs.  From drawing atomic models to distinguishing types of chemical reactions, they were exposed to concepts many people do not see until high school.  Without a doubt, R.E.A.L. Science fosters scientific inquiry while instilling a love for learning.

Classic Science

I recently stumbled across this comic-book inspired curriculum created by an 8th grade science teacher with an alter-ego, Mr. Q.  It only takes one visit to his site to discover Mr. Q has a passion for teaching and genuine love of science.  Geared for 6-12 year olds, each course consists of 36 weeks of lessons broken down into two days of reading, vocabulary and writing followed by two days of hands-on activities and experiments.  In addition to the student e-text, there is a supplemental parent e-text that provides additional background information and materials required for the experiments.  Review questions and tests are available to round out each unit.  Mr. Q is so confident you will be impressed that you can actually try the Elementary Life Science e-text for FREE.  For more information and lots of great ideas, check out the Blog of Mr. Q.

Math/Science Nucleus

MS Nucleus is a non-profit organization that offers a FREE, online, comprehensive K-12 science curriculum.  Upon visiting their site, you will first have to choose either the Elementary or Secondary portal to access the materials.  The K-6 elementary program is broken down into the study of several "cycles": Applied Science, The Universe Cycle, Plate Tectonics Cycle, The Rock Cycle, The Water Cycle, and The Life Cycle.  Each cycle runs for a designated length of time varying from 4-8 weeks.  Each theme consists of a Pre-Lab, Lab, and Post Lab activities which foster problem-solving and critical thinking.  In addition, the upper elementary grades begin to integrate age-appropriate math skills in order to lay a foundation for quantitative analysis and logical thinking.  There are also a wealth of additional resources including an online dictionary and activities, sideshows, story books, and assessment materials. 

The secondary program is laid out in a similar fashion including investigation in the following areas: Physical Science, Human Biology, Earth Science, Biological Science and Math Integration.  The Earth Science course has completed the e-textbook, assessment materials, and supplemental, online materials.  Like many educational programs, funding is vital.  As a result, the other courses are still a "work-in-progress."  The aim of the secondary program is to build upon the experiences from completion of the elementary program.  Problem-solving, critical thinking, building models, and applying appropriate mathematical concepts make this a challenging program.

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Piecing together your own curriculum, while a daunting task, is another option to consider.  There are a wealth of resources on the web available to both teachers and homeschoolers if you have the time to devote to exploration. Here are a few great resources I have found:

• FOSS Web
• WISE
• BrainPOP
• USGS
• NASA Quest
• NASA Education
• Discovery Education
• BRIDGE Marine Science
• Earthguide
• Science World
• MathMol
• Science Museum
• NOVA
• Sky Diary- KIDSTORM
• UCMP Paleontology
• ReefED- Great Barrier Reef and Marine Science Resources
• ReefHQ- Aquarium
• NHI Education Project

In closing, I find I am not any closer to discovering the "perfect" science curriculum.  However, I leave you energized and excited about the possibilities.  Our children, parents, and educators are fortunate to have a multitude of resources that are so easily accessible.  As a mom, a teacher, and a life-long learner, I plan to continue my quest and I'll be happy to share. 

Going Batty With Web 2.0!

In this webquest, we will explore the wild world of bats while incorporating several of the web 2.0 techie tools.  Throughout the lesson you will be using: Wallwisher, Bubble.us, Wordle, Glogster, Animoto, Flickr and SchoolTube.  Get comfy and enjoy because you are in for a real treat!

Introduction: You will use the famous book, Stellaluna, as an introduction to our unit on bats.  Stellaluna got lost from her mother and finds herself "odd bat out" in a family of birds.  She never had the chance to discover who she was and from where she came.  Join us in this adventure as we help Stellaluna discover her "inner bat" and help her get reunited with her long, lost family.  Along the way, we will enter the nocturnal world of bats and explore these fascinating creatures. 

Task: After reading the book, Stellaluna , you will begin an investigation of bats. You need to find out the following things:

• the difference between megabats and microbats
• unique characteristics of bats
• how mothers care for their babies
• echolocation
• the importance of bats to the world

Throughout this quest, you will post "stickies" on our virtual wall highlighting the important information about bats you have discovered.  Check out our Wallwisher to get started!

Process:

1. Bats can be classified into two main categories: megabats and microbats.  Use the links below to research the differences between these two categories of bats.

• Bats...Creatures of the Night
• Wikipedia: Microbats
• Microbat Info
• BBC: Megabats 
• Wikipedia: Megabats
• Megabat Info
• Bat Conservation International

Upon completing your research, construct a Venn diagram highlighting the similarities and differences between the two types of bats.

2.  Stellaluna's mother loved her very much.  How does a mother bat care for her baby? Read the information from the link below and create a bubble map in which you address the following questions.  Oh, you are not limited to just this link.  Use this as a starting point for your research.

Bat families

• What is a baby bat called?
• What is a bat nursery?
• How many babies are usually born to a mother each year?
• How do mothers care for their babies?
• What other animals care for their young in a similar fashion?

Check out our Bubble Map!

3.  Stellaluna relies on her eyesight to "see" food.  Other bats navigate and find food using echolocation.  It's like their superpower!  Read the story of Echo the Bat on join him on his adventure to find his winter home.  Along the way, explore remote sensing and use false-color satellite images to locate Echo.  Don't forget to post "stickies" on our virtual wall highlighting what you discover!

4.  Bats are extremly helpful to humans in many ways.   Using the link below, investigate ways they benefit people and the world in general.  Display your findings on a bubble map or make a wordle including fun facts about bats.

• Bats4Kids
• Smithsonian: bats
• Bat Conservation and Research

Check out our Wordle!

5.  Throughout this exploration, you have discovered many exciting facts about bats.  In addition, you have probably come to realize there are close to 1000 species of bats in the world today.  With the guidance of your teacher or parent, select your favorite species and create an animoto movie showcasing them in their natural habitats.  You could begin by searching Flickr for usable images.  Upon completion, you will upload your video to schooltube and will use this later in your final project.

Check out our animoto movie!

6.  Now that you are a bat expert, you will create a digital poster to showcase your work.  To get started, collect your "stickies," bubble maps, wordles, movies and anything else you might want to include.  Login to Glogster and have fun! The sky's the limit!

**Check out our glog! **

Evaluation:  I have not assigned a point value to any part of this project.  I feel that can be left up to each teacher or homeschooling parent. 

Conclusion:  If you still have the thirst for more or for extension activities, check out these other interesting sites.  These resources are a great way to bridge to other disciplines or take the skill level higher for more advanced students.

• K-8 Aeronautics Internet Textbook: Bats (Awesome curriculum bridges!)
• Build your own bat house.
• Bats and robotics
• More Bat-Bots
• How Stuff Works: Bats
• Online bat quiz
• Creature Feature: Vampire Bats
• Listen to bats

Additional Reading: For additional literature selctions, check out Ye Olde Bat Book Shoppe for a list of resources.

Hopefully this has been a fun learning adventure!  I can't wait to post our kids final projects!  In the process of making this webquest, I have been inspired to develop other activities.  There is so much information available if you take the time to explore.  Go batty and never lose the desire to learn!

 Check out other Thirsty Thursday ideas!

Total Techies This Week!

As many of you know, we are a homeschooling family.  We have recently completed our first 6 weeks of the year and will celebrate by diving into a couple of fun projects.  Since we are on a technology roll around here, I thought it would be fun to explore ways to enhance our studies of Medieval History and Physical Science.  So, after much deliberation, I have decided that we will tackle the following two projects:

• Interactive 3-D Timeline for History
• 3-D blueprints of a roller coaster to use to build an actual working model

To accomplish these things, I thought we would use Google Sketchup and Dipity.  I am very new to these programs, but thought it would be fun to explore the possibilities.  I have included links to the lessons I planned to accompany each activity. 

• Timeline of Medieval History:  Here's what we have so far!  Obviously, this is a work in progress, but really cool!  Dipity allows you to link not only to images, but youtube videos and webpages too.  Wow!

Medieval History on Dipity.

• May The Force Be With You:  This is going ot be more of a challenge, but should prove to be a memorable learning experience. 

Also, I am continuing to find ways to enhance our vocabulary studies.  This week, we are using Visuwords to create fantastic word webs.  This is an amazing, interactive, graphical dictionary!   After entering your word, you are given a design resembling a neural net.  You can quickly see parts of speech and browse various word meanings.  Check out the web below for one of our words: abrupt.

I would love to hear any comments and/or suggestions.  I'll do a follow-up post of our progress.  Also, check out other Thirsty Thursday posts at the Five J's.

"The Secret Key" to Learning

"Good Afternoon, Alderbash School! ..... I am here today to give a talk.  The title of my talk is My Secret Key to the Universe."

What is the "secret key?"  According to George it is.... PHYSICS!  I can just see my husband doing backflips in his office right now!!  Physics is a word that comes from the Greek, physis, and means nature.  Quite simply, physics is the analysis of nature in an attempt to make sense of the world, or more correctly, the universe in which we all live.  Being one of the oldest disciplines, physics is often intertwined with an understanding of mathematics, chemistry and even philosophy.  Advances in physics often serve to benefit other disciplines and technologies.  In other words, it appears that George was right!  Physics is a secret key to the universe explained through our models and fostered by an atmosphere of inquiry.

While most of us can safely say we lack the ability to space travel via a supercomputer named Cosmos, we do have other opportunities in which we can challenge our students, our children, and ourselves.  His mentor, Eric, actively engages George and Annie in his research.  He is not afraid to tackle the big issues and finds no need to "dumb down" the material.  He provides them opportunities to have real discussions, real experiences, and construct real models.  In other words, Eric facilities their learning by allowing them to actually "do" science.  

This is exactly the situation our brave hero, George, finds himself.  Throughout the book, George is presented opportunities to experience science.  He is doing more than just reading about it in a textbook.  He is actually living it, feeling it, and actively engaged.  He hurls through space on the head of a comet.  He touches the origins of our solar system as he drifts through the rings of Saturn.  He feels the gravitational pull as he and Annie fly past Jupiter.  He feels the bombardment of the asteroids as he passes through the asteroid belt heading home towards earth.  His experiences not only inspire but provide a foundation upon which he is able to construct knowledge.  

As teachers, we need to breathe life into our teaching so that students can have similar opportunities.  Think about it!  How can you make math come alive?  How can students relive the Middle Ages or explore New Worlds?  What can you do to stimulate interest and create an atmosphere of inquiry?  There are those who are already striving to break through the barriers and revolutionize teaching.  Check out dy/dan and his method of WCYDWT.  There are more resources available to us now than ever before and it is truly exciting!  

In the beginning of the book, Eric sparks George's curiosity in science by performing a simple experiment in which he uses static electricity to bend water.  It was not expensive and the materials were right in his own kitchen.  He just took the time to cease a learning opportunity.  Carpe Diem!  Whether you choose to stream live podcasts into the classroom (or home in our case) or perform a simple experiment in your kitchen, educators must find a way to stimulate creative thinking and get kids excited about learning.  How exciting it would be to create a "living classroom" where teaching and learning are organic and always evolving.  The "secret key" to the universe may be physics, but I think the "secret key" to learning is curiosity.