Pre-teaching strategies:
- assess prior knowledge about fossils and Geologic history
- teach basic navigation on the internet and try a few sample curriculum webs
- review lab skills/use of a procedure
- ensure that students are paired with a compatible lab partner
- teach PowerPoint and include a practice mini-project
Using the web:
- Tell students that they will be using an internet based "classroom" to reach 4+ learning objects in their Geology
Unit. Be sure the learning targets are clearly posted in the classroom.
- Re-inforce that they should work as independently as possible but that you will be available at all times if needed.
- Open the curriculum web together and project the Home page on the LCD projector. Read over the home page
as a whole group and point out the navigational bar.
- Ask students to begin their study. They are to go only as far as the "Fossils?" page today and tomorrow.
- At the end of part 1 (Fossils?) Remind the whole group that they will need to have the required materials for
the Fossil Lab. These are listed on the Home page. Be sure to have a few extra egg cartons on hand for students
who were absent or absent minded :-)
- Schedule 2 days for the fossil lab. One to create and one to "unearth" and observe.
- Part 3 "Virtual Dig" Students can procedd from this point at their own pace. By this time all students should
be familiar with the page and the classroom expectations for completion.
- Stop periodically to review the learning targets and to have a whole group "check-in." Oftentimes, classroom discussion
will open the avenues of communication and students will be more likely to voice questions or concerns.
- Set a time limit for completion. I would say 7-10 days maximum. Depending on the classroom period length.
- Offer extra-help afterschool for those students who need more time or support with this curriculum web.
Culminating Activity:
- Set aside a few days to allow students to present their PowerPoint projects.
- Use large mural paper to create a classroom timeline of Geologic history/events. Ask students to enter
several of their favorite events from their personal timelines. Offer opportunities to illustrate the timeline.
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