Adaptation 2: Organizing Information in Time and Space

Time Line:

As students read about the Ebloa outbreak and saw the video hook, they developed a time line of events. Each group agreed that in order to solve any mystery or problem, a scientist or detective needs to gather and organize their facts. As they watched and listened, students developed time lines either by drawing or writing (or both) to describe the events in chronological order.Individual students were allowed to select the format which best served their skills.The group then selected the best finished products for presentation and display.

Graphic Organizers:

Various types of graphic organizers were explained and made available at the materials table if the students chose to use them (Sequence Chain, Jelly Fish, Step by Step, etc.). When students selected their "Expert Role," they completed a web or Wheel, listing and detailing each of their specific tasks. As each task was completed and presented, that part of the web was checked off by the teacher. During presentations and labs, "Thinking Guides" (see sample below) were completed as part of the student folder. Completion of the observation section was required in class. Inference and conclusion sections were generally completed as homework and shared the following day.

Assignment Sheets:

As the unit progressed the teacher listed each "activity" and "assignment" on a large chart posted in the room. The chart (see attached sample) included the following headings: assignment, date assigned, date due, and grade. Upon arrival to class each day, all students were required to update their copy of the assignment chart which was stapled to the inside cover of their student folders.

This technique encourages student responsibility and organization. It also addresses the age-old question of "What's my grade?" since each student has an updated listing of their progress and grades each day. Since assignments are logged in by each student as they are assigned, the "You never gave me that assignment" excuse is no longer an option.

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THINKING GUIDE

Name__________________

Date___________________

Part One: Observations

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Part Two: Inferences

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Part Three: Conclusion

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