Zoo Questby Richelle DeCuir

Social Studies Grades 3-5

Louisiana Framework• G-1A-E2: locating and interpreting geographic features and

places on maps and globes

• G-1B-E1 describing and comparing the physical characteristics of places including land forms, bodies of water, soils, vegetation, and climate

• G-1B-E4 defining and differentiating regions by using physical characteristics, such as climate and land forms, and by using human characteristics, such as economic activity and language

• G-1D-E1 identifying and explaining ways in which people depend upon and modify the physical environment

• G-1D-E4 describing the use, distribution, and importance of natural resources

Technology Strategies• Identify, explain, and effectively use input, output and storage devices of computers and

other technologies (e.g., keyboard, mouse, scanner, adaptive devices, monitor, printer floppy disk, hard drive). (5,6)

• window, disk drive, hard drive, CD-ROM, laser disc) when referring to technology. (6) • Discuss basic issues related to responsible use of technology and information; and

describe personal consequences of inappropriate use. (5) • Use a variety of developmentally appropriate resources and productivity tools (e.g.,

logical thinking programs, writing and graphic tools, digital cameras, graphing software) for communication, presentation, and illustration of thoughts, ideas, and stories (e.g., signs, posters, banners, charts, journals, newsletters, and multimedia presentation.) (1,3,4)

• Use technology tools (e.g., publishing, multimedia tools, and word processing software) for individual and for simple collaborative writing, communication, and publishing activities for a variety of audiences. (1,3)

• Gather information and communicate with others using telecommunications (e.g., email, video conference, internet) with support from teachers, family members, or peers. (1,4,5,6)

• Utilize search strategies employing keywords, phrases, and Boolean operators (and, or, not) to access and retrieve information. (4)

• Evaluate electronic information for accuracy, relevance, appropriateness, comprehensiveness, and bias. (2,4,5)

• Use technology resources to assist in problem-solving, self-directed learning, and extended learning activities. (2,4)

Learning Objectives• Locate three animals in the zoo• Complete a chart using resources both online and offline for

three animals• Take a picture of three animals using a digital camera• Locate where the three animals live at the Alexandria Zoo

and label on a map• Locate and label where the animals originate on a world

map• Create a presentation using the information collected• Evaluate group work using a rubric

Materials• Zoo map• World map• Teacher created rubric and chart• Zoo Quest Directions and clues• “Panda Bear, Panda Bear, What do

you See?” by Bill Martin & Eric Carle

Technology Connection• Digital Camera

• Floppy disk

• Computer

• Printer

• Microsoft PowerPoint

• Website hot list

Initial Classroom Procedures

• Read story and discuss animals• Discuss the concept of extinction• Assign groups• Pass out supplies and give

directions

Zoo Procedures• Groups search for their assigned

animals• Take pictures of assigned animals

using digital camera• Record information describing the

animals and their locations• Return within the specified time

Computer Lab Procedures

• Research the assigned animals on the Internet using the provided hot list

• Compile the information from the zoo chart and websites

• Insert animal pictures into presentation along with information

• Evaluate presentation for grammar and punctuation• Print handouts• Group presentations using PowerPoint and

handouts

Assessment Procedures• Teacher created rubrics will be

completed (1) by the presenting group, (2) other students, and (3) the teacher.

• All rubrics will be averaged for the group’s final score.