Animals in the Ecosystems

Summary

This lesson is part of a larger research unit, students have their source material and will highlight keywords and phrases using the graphic organizer from Step Up to Writing and build a paragraph on animal contributions to their environment.

Materials

• Graphic organizer
• Student books
• Access to computers

Background for Teachers

Teachers need to understand the energy and matter cycles.

Student Prior Knowledge

Students should understand ecosystems, living and non-living, as well as how to find a book in the library.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Students will build a presentation document, i.e. powerpoint, prezi,SWAY, to show how that animal exists in their environment.

Instructional Procedures

15 min
Teacher will discuss and show what a contribution is

15 min
Students will read material and fill out their graphic organizer on their animals contributions to the environment using keywords and phrases

30 min
Students will use the graphic organizer to write a paragraph using the steps outlined in Step Up to Writing. Paragraph will include a topic sentence and summary sentence after details.

Strategies for Diverse Learners

Students will be engaged due to choice and breadth of topics. Librarian will guide choice of materials to match reading ability.

Assessment Plan

Completed rough draft of paragraph

Bibliography

• Step up to writing
• Common core in action
• Protecting ecosystems