Unit Sketch

Here is my initial unit sketch.  I haven't yet worked out all the details, but I got the ball rolling.  Any comments and/or advice would be appreciated.


Unit Topic: California Regions

Subject: History

Grade Level: 4th

Time Frame: Two Weeks

Stage 1: Desired Results
What should students learn as a result of this unit?

Students will:
- be able to identify and describe the various regions of California.
- be able to describe how a region's characteristics and physical environment affects human activity.


Stage 2: Evidence
What evidence will show that students have met the Stage 1 goals?

Students will construct a salt dough map of California labeling major physical features (ex: mountain ranges, valleys), and color coating the different regions.  They will also be assigned a region to do some research on to complete a report where they will describe what the region(types of plants, animals, physical characteristics, where it is located, whether), and explain how those factors influence human activity (jobs, recreational activities, attractions).  Student will then give a presentation to explain their findings.


Stage 3: Learning Plan
What key learning events will help students reach the goals and be successful on the
assessments?


-Read about the different regions in the California workbook.
-Watch a video on the different regions
-Create a paper map of California labeling major cities and geographical features, and color coding the regions.
-Create a topographical map of California using salt-dough to replicate the paper version.
-Research a region of California in a group
-Prepare a report on the assigned region using a template provided by the teacher.
-Create a Power Point presentation to explain their findings to the rest of the class.