Social Studies (grade 3) includes world communities and (grade 4) New York & the Northeast.  We will contrast and compare habitats and adaptations to these specific habitats. 

Social Studies Standard 3
Understanding the geography of the interdependent worlds in which we live.

This videoconference will be culminating activity for animals and their world whether it be globally or specific to the northeast.

Time Required:
1.  Classes have habitats in classroom for plants/animals.  Life cycles are observed as well as temporary habitats.  The life cycle of a monarch butterfly is observed.  Other animals such as ant could also be used.  The life cycle of the fast-growing Wisconsin bean (6 weeks) is also observed.  Science textbooks on specific chapters are read.  Research projects on particular animals/insects is integrated with library resource/skill.  Time for this could be spiraled into curriculum for weeks.

2.  After videoconference, an understanding that plants and animals not only adapt to survive, but human intervention can also assist in the survival plan.

3.  Assessment - Research projects.  Active discussions to be continued to ensure understanding of the connectiveness of the world in which we live.  Emphasize the importance of the world puzzle which fits together but if a piece is missing it cannot be complete.

Logistical Planning:
1.  Desensitize children to camera and seeing themselves on T.V.

2.  Tape area which screen will include.

3.  Large name tags for children.

4.  Practice speaking in loud clear voices.

5.  Children with attention, speech, or other problems will be up front.  Children with aides will have them near.

6.  Children will have clear picture of what is to be expected.

7.  allow them to be excited and proud that they are using new technology.

8.  Teachers involved will practice after school to re-familiarize selves with equipment.

Technique and Observations:
Techniques used to collect evidence of student progress will occur after the videoconference, observations and research.  Students should participate in respectful and knowledgeable discussions about interdependence whether it is tiny or global.  The should understand that we have tools to survive and the area which we live is an important factor for this survival.