Created By: Janet P.

Grade Level: 2nd Grade

Content Area: Life Science – Ecosystems

SUMMARY:

In second grade, students build on their prior understanding about plants and animals living in habitats by expanding their knowledge to include the concept of ecosystems and the interdependence of plants and animals on each other as well as dependence on nonliving resources to survive. The purpose of this activity is to provide second graders the opportunity to explore ecosystems with a Teach-Share-Learn experience. In this activity, the second graders in my Western Washington classroom will connect with a second grade classroom in Central Australia to exchange knowledge about the ecosystems that are local to where they live. Skype and several of the ePals tools including discussion forums, media galleries, and Wiki pages will facilitate communication and collaboration for this activity. Prior to the start of this project, I will have connected with a second grade teacher in a Central Australian classroom who is willing to participate in this activity via ePals at

http://www.epals.com/#!/main.

ACTIVITY/PROJECT DETAILS:

1) Second graders in both classes will be organized in learning groups with four students per group.

2) In my classroom, each group will decide on a “group name,” and create an introduction thread in an ePals discussion forum that shares a little bit about who they are, while serving as the initial connection with potential partner groups. From the discussion forum threads, Australian student groups will each choose a group from my classroom to partner with and will respond with an introduction of their own.

3) Student groups from both classes will research and create a presentation (handout, PowerPoint, brochure, etc.) that teaches about a local ecosystem. Photographs are required and video clips or any other resource that cultivates learning in an interesting, relevant way will be strongly encouraged.

4) Groups will share their presentations with their partner groups using the ePals media gallery. Reflections on learning experiences will be posted on the discussion forum by partner groups from both classes.

5) In order to deepen new knowledge, partner groups from both classes will work together to create an ePal Wiki page that compares and contrasts the ecosystems that they shared with each other.

6) While this project may continue over two to three weeks, the final activity will be a “Skype Party” that allows students a face-to-face interaction experience with their new Australian friends.

EARL TECHNOLOGY STANDARDS:

EARL 1 – Component 1.1 Innovate: Students will meet this standard by researching local ecosystems using online resources and by using a publishing program of their choice to design a presentation that creatively teaches about a local ecosystem.

EARL 1 – Component 1.2 Collaborate: This standard will be met as students communicate with their Australian partner groups through ePals discussion forum and Skype. Students will also meet this standard when they work collaboratively within their own classroom community groups as well as with their Australian partner groups to support their own learning about ecosystems in addition to contributing to the learning of their peers. Work samples representing this standard include the presentation on ePals Media Gallery and the ePals Wiki page created by each group.

EARL 2 – Component 2.1 Practice Safety: Students will practice their skills for safe, legal, and ethical behavior in the use of information and technology throughout this activity. Guidelines will be reviewed frequently and student Internet activity will be monitored.