Homepage

Fourth Graders Begin California Birds Research Project

The fourth grade has begun research as part of their California Birds Research Project, a project in which each student selects a bird native to California and does extensive research on that bird. “They will research, make a mind map, and write about their bird,” explains teacher Kate Callan. “Each student will also make a model of their bird out of papier mâché, which will be hung in our class.” Through this project, the students learn key research skills: what makes websites credible and how to recognize reputable sources. “This project crosses many subjects: social studies, writing, art, and technology,” adds Ms. Callan. “We connect it to our community value of integrity (ometz lev), by asking, ‘What is our responsibility when we pass on information?’”
 
“With so many access points, students are able to connect to this project. Because it is an integrated project, all learners are able to successfully demonstrate their understanding. And I appreciate that this project begins by asking students what they are interested in (which bird they would like to research); it’s a model for allowing student passions to lead them forward in their learning.” MORE PHOTOS
Back