The Best of New England
A Web-Quest for Fourth Grade Social Studies

Designed by:
Jennifer Barrett, Hollie Martin, and Lisa Wilcox

Introduction

What makes New England interesting? You live in New England and know how great it is, but what about people in California, Oklahoma, and Hawaii? Let people know how proud you are of New England. Where else can you find great skiing and hiking trails, beautiful beaches, and fall foliage? Don�t forget the history! New England is rich in history and culture. There is something for everyone in this great region! You are responsible for bringing tourists to the New England region. Sell your region to the whole country!

Task

Your team is responsible for designing a travel brochure for your assigned New England State. Each group member will research one area for the brochure. Your audience is kids your age. Remember, if the kids want to visit your state, they will bug the parents until they go.

Process

1. Your team of four has been assigned one of the six New England States.

2. Assign one of the following categories to each member:

   • Attractions
     Examples: beaches, theme parks, museums

   • Historical Points of Interest
     Examples: important events or people, historical sites, culture

   • Physical Features
     Examples: landforms, climate, location, bodies of water

   • Nature
     Examples: scenic tours, animal life, foliage, plants

     Each brochure should include a labeled picture of the state bird, flag, and flower. Include three to five fun facts that might be of interest to the potential tourist.

Helpful Hints:

Use the graphic organizer to help organize your research.

Check the rubric during research to see what information is required in each category.

Remember, you are trying to bring tourists to your state. Choose information that is interesting and inviting! Add any information you think will help sell your state.

3. Use the following links to gather information for your travel brochure:
   • World Almanac For Kids
     There are great links for information on history, culture, landscape, climate, etc.

   • Kids.gov
     Fun facts about your state can be found here!

   • Fact Monster
     Here are fast and fun facts about your state. They are easy to read and fun to explore!

   • 50 States
     Fun facts galore! Find the state bird, flower, flag, and even song. Lots of pictures! Tons of information!

   • Post Cards From America
     Want to travel to your state? This web-site will take you on a virtual tour. Here you will find photographs, major attractions and landmarks, and diaries from people who have been to your state.

   • Law
     Looking for a detailed picture of your flag? Look no further; just click on your state.

   • Discover New England
     What makes New England different from other regions? This web-site will tell you. Find information on popular sites of interest, famous people who lived in the region, and beautiful scenic views.

   • Nature Of New England
     Info on mammals, birds, butterflies, flowers, a great site for pictures.

   • Nature's Palette
     Check out New England's fall foliage!

   • Kid Info
     New England history comes alive!

   • New England For Kids
     Attractions galore. Something for everyone.

   • New England For Visitors
     More fun in many forms!

   Feel free to use any additional sources you find, such as books, travel brochures, encyclopedias, etc.

4. Find pictures to include in your travel guide. Make the travel brochure visually attractive. Choose pictures of major attractions, landforms, and historical sites.

5. Design and assemble your travel brochure. Neatness and organization count!

Evaluation

You want to achieve greatness, right? The Rubric will lead you to the greatness you desire.

Conclusion

Are the tourists pouring in? What�s their favorite destination? Discuss your state with fellow classmates. What makes your state great? Would you like to visit one of the other states in the region? Which one and why?