INSTRUCTIONAL PLAN

The goals of this curriculum web are is to have students supplement you’re teaching with their input on the various topic.  It will allow the students to make many choices in what they want to research and teach to the remainder of the class.  The following list explains each step in implementing this curriculum web.

1.       The class should have already been instructed and assessed on a Rocks and Minerals unit.  Some of the material they will see will use many of the vocabulary and concepts from that unit.

2.      The instructor should try out the entire curriculum web to insure that all links are working and that it corresponds with their educational or district goals.

3.      Prior to this CW, teachers should ensure that their students are capable of working independently and cooperatively.

4.      Start the curriculum web introduction approximately three weeks prior to ending your Rocks and Minerals unit.  Be sure to log at least 5 days in the library, computer lab or make sure you have access to a portable computer lab.  Students will need the time to choose, research and create their power point lessons.  They will also need assistance creating good activities for the class.

5.      Print out and make copies of all assessments and evaluation for students to see prior to beginning the research.  It is important for the students to know how they will be graded.

6.      The group that chooses earthquakes will go first, followed by volcanoes, plate tectonics and finally geologic history.  You can be more lenient with your assessment of the first group since they will have less time than the other groups.

7.      You must plan the rest of the curriculum around what the students choose to teach.  See the TOPICS and GROUP links for more information.

8.      Be prepared to incorporate the student information into your final assessment for the unit.  Use the review and assessment that the students have to create for the class.

9.      Be prepared for many questions and concerns.  Students will eventually get into this project, but they will be hesitant at first.  Make sure you are visible and roaming around during planning stages.  Don’t allow your students to believe they are doing your job.

10.  Most of all have fun. You will be surprised to see how much you will learn as you watch your students learn.