The Students will face challenges on a cooperative planet research mission, listing the planets in order, observing and comparing different planetary terrain, composing a text from research facts and creative ideas, sending a message by e-mail, presenting and discussing research... these are some of the activities proposed for young astronauts on this QALAXY QUEST.
The objective of this WebQuest is to develop reading comprehension of factual text through researching, recording, and consolidating scientific information using technology. The students will also develop their skills in persuasive letter writing which is a Fontana Unified School District writing assessment. The use of the internet will require the students to use deductive reasoning and cooperative skills.
Procedure:
* Link the GALAXY QUEST on the computer station in order that students can have easy access
* Present the WebQuest to the students as a large group and emphasize that research information can be found using the Internet, classroom books, library books or books students may have at home.
* Decide on groupings and assign planet destinations. Have the students email you to find out their mission. Complete the TEAM LOGO activity and review the concept of making notes before beginning research (have the students use the DATA COLLECTION worksheet.
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* During research, it is important that the teacher be available to monitor Internet access, provide navigation assistance and explain any unfamiliar scientific vocabulary. Also, ensure that students know how to print selections.
* After groups have completed research notes and a rough draft of their text, it is useful to present the virtual post card site to the class as a large group, and send a post card as an example. If the e-mail address for mission control ( teacher's e-mail address) is posted near the computer station, students will be able to type it in as required. After the Postcard assignment is completerd, the students will then need to complete a POSTER/BROCHURE which is explained in the QALAXY QUEST.
* Have the students print out copies of the evaluation rubric to have on hand before presentations. After the sharing session, encourage a comment and question time. Take a digital photo of each group wearing their mission badges for display, and as a group momento.
I would like to thank the following for the information that I have obtained for this WEBQUEST:
Ken Decroo- professor at CSUSB and teacher at Truman Middle School in Fontana Unified school district.
Rita Gunning and Wendy Thomson whose work has inspired me to create this webquest.
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