Fourth graders have begun their Texas Performance Standard Project by investigating the elements that constitute Research Skills. We began by looking at the Colonial period and the Revolutionary War period. We read the story of the Colony of Roanoke and brainstormed the possibilities of what could have caused the disappearance of this Colony. Using their research skills, students will learn how to record their findings. This is an ongoing process this year as we will eventurally be deciding on a project in TPSP to use our Research Skills.
Fourth graders were engaged in a Synetics exercise likening themselves as gifted students to a dolphin. Many interesting comparisons and differences were discovered from this divergent exercise. Students also began researching various scientists to discover the view point of each and the differences based on their field of study. We used the Lost Colony of Roanoke as our research target. Works cited was also emphsized as students needed to practice noting their sources. These exercises are all in preparation for their TPSP project.
Fourth Graders recent research was to list sources of information the "MLA" way. Students discovered the correct way to cite a book, internet article, magazine article and a newspaper article according to the Modern Language Assocation format...(MLA). The next adventure gave students the opportunity to see a part of how the US Government selects a President. They participated in a simulation of selecting a President based on campaigning and voting. Students will soon finish research methods and begin working on their TPSP selection. An Enigma is a science unit that allows students to study a naturally occuring Enigma or Unsolved Mystery using scientific research methods. Another choice is Innovation Celebration which is an interdisciplinary unit that involves students to investigate the process of Innovative Thinking and to study why society calls for certain inventions at certain times. Wishing you all a Happy Thanksgiving.
