Shelly
Eaton
SLM521SP03
3/25/03
Web Quest
Scientist Needs Your Help!
Introduction:
As a student in this district, fifth graders are expected to learn and understand different aspects of earth science. They are also expected to be able to gather information from the computer and be able to present information to classmates. This web quest does all of these, plus makes the students use problem-solving skills because they are required to work on the project with partners. Read on and see what kind of help the scientist needs.
The Task:
Good morning! Thank you for
reporting to duty on time. As a recently educated earth studies student, you
will join a team of scientists in the study of volcanoes, earthquakes, or
tornadoes. You will form a group, and work with two other scientists to search
different sites about your topic.
You will use the information to report back to me, your head
scientist. It will then be your job
to inform the other scientists in your field, earth science.
By the end of this lesson you
will:
•Visit several
sites about your topic (earthquakes, volcanoes, or tornadoes)
•Answer
questions that go with your topic
•Work in a
group to present your information
•Learn about
the other two topics from other scientists (classmates)
Process:
1. Read the websites that are listed below your topic.
2. Write down any information that would interest the
audience.
3. Each of you is required to answer two of the questions
below and take notes.
4. Answer the following questions:
a. What causes your topic to happen?
b. What does your topic physically do to the
Earth’s surface?
c. Pick three main facts that the other scientists should
know about your topic.
d. How would you feel if you experienced your event? Why
would you feel that way?
e. Is there a certain kind of scientist that studies this
field? What are they called? What is their job?
f. How do people clean up after your disaster?
5. Planning how to present the information
a. With your group, decide how to present your topic.
Some ideas could include games, plays, poems, or worksheets.
b. Remember each of you are required to report what you
discovered.
6. Present your findings
a. Present all information you learned to the other
scientists in a loud, clear voice.
b. Make sure you ask them if they have any questions.
Resources:
Volcanoes:
National
Geographic: Eye in the Sky
U.S. Geological Survey, Volcano Hazards
Program
Earthquakes:
National
Geographic: Eye in the Sky
Tornadoes:
National
Geographic: Eye in the Sky
Evaluation:
Conclusions:
The earth is a very
interesting and is fascinating to study and learn about. Continue to use the Internet to help
you learn more about the Earth and other topics that you are interested in
exploring.