Activities+&+Assessments

= ﻿Activities = Day 1: Teacher activates background knowledge about astronomy with an [|Anticipation Guide]. Then, previews the project requirements, timelines, checklists, etc. with students. Students brainstorm words associated with astronomy on chart paper. Teacher creates a [|Wordle] with the words. Students view [|Elementary Video Adventures: Astronomy] to further build and activate background knowledge and complete exit card. Teacher groups students in research teams of three.

Day 2: Research teams generate questions based on background knowledge of astronomy. Research teams decide (with teacher support) which questions are substantial enough to pursue for inquiry.

Day 3: Teacher shows and demonstrates use of multiple resources and references to use for research: encyclopedias, online databases, website list, reserved books, etc. Teacher reviews how to use table of contents, index, text features to determine if a resource is useful. Students receive a copy of the "Website Evaluation" handout and are instructed on how to evaluate a website as teacher models. Students are given another hand out and are required to evaluate one website they use during the research process.

Day 4: Research teams receive a copy of the "Research Priorities Matrix" handout and preview the tasks on the matrix to complete as they go through the research process. Teacher reviews how to write a bibliography and cite sources. Students begin research and note-taking in the school library. Teacher and school librarian assist students as needed.

Day 5: Students continue to research in the school library. Teacher and school librarian meet with small groups to review note-taking skills, reformulate questions, and aid in determining whether facts/information are useful.

Day 6: Teacher introduces options for the product. Students decide which product to use to present research findings.

Day 7: Students plan, design and create products.

Day 8: Students work independently on products.

Day 9: Students peer evaluate products. Students edit/revise products.

Day 10: Students present products.