Unit
Overview
This unit is a Project-Based Unit for
fifth grade science. The unit is able to
cover fifth grade objectives in science, language arts, arts/drama, and
technology. View these objectives in
each lesson plan or under the Big Ideas & NCSCOS Objectives link. The students have an authentic role of
scientists as they research the water cycle through a Webquest,
reading a book, and conducting an experiment.
Their authentic role is changed as they become teachers who plan a way
to present the water cycle in an interesting way to first graders. The students are able to make skits, songs,
or other creative presentations to engage the first graders. Universal design is incorporated throughout
the unit by the Webquest accommodating ESL students
and other students who may have reading difficulties. Also, the presentations allow students great
flexibility so their strengths are magnified with however they choose to
present the information on the water cycle.
You can view the daily incorporation of Universal Design in the lesson
plans. This unit was developed in Fall 2002 in my Math/Science Methods course at