WV State Standards: Science: SC.9.2.3 National Standards:  Science: 11 Economics: 1, 2 Blooms Taxonomy: Evaluation, Synthesis, Analysis, Application, Comprehension, Knowledge 21st Century Skills: Learning and Innovation Skills  Critical Thinking and Problem Solving Skills Communication and Collaboration Skills Information, Media and Technology Skills Information Literacy Media Literacy Life and Career Skills Flexibility & Adaptability Initiative & Self-Direction Social & Cross-Cultural Skills Productivity & Accountability Leadership & Responsibility

Overview:

The purpose of this learning experience is to use writing skills to increase student knowledge of problem based learning in real life dealing with science and economic issues. The students will use researched information to create a written letter to the Mexican Government to be posted on a Wiki.

Objective(s):

1. The students will use research information to create a written letter and post it on a Wiki.
2. The students will demonstrate collaborative working skills.

Time Required:

This lesson will approximately take two 45 minute class period.

Pre-Requisite Skills:

Students will need to have basic collaborative, technology (Wiki and Microsoft Word), writing, and typing skills.

Computer, Microsoft Word, Internet, Wiki

Pencil, Paper, Computer, Microsoft Word, Internet, Wiki

1.      In their research and role card groups, the students will write a rough draft letter to the Mexican government stating the point of view of a person and/or group in this situation. The letter should clearly express the assigned point of view and include supporting statements based on research. Have students state the opportunity cost in their letter.

2.      The students will use computers to type the letter.

3.      Groups will share with the class the point of view letter they typed by creating a Wiki on the Internet. Each group will read the points of view posted on the Wiki.

4.      The students will discuss the issue and points of view using the Wiki.

The teacher can extend this unit in a number of ways for enriched groups such as giving more detailed requirements. The teacher may also work more closely with remedial groups by reducing the number of requirements.

 Be sure to remind the students to use opportunity cost and research information in their letter.

The students will be assessed using an oral presentation, collaborative work, and class debate rubric that will be completed at the end of the project. The students will be using the written letter and research information gathered in this lesson to prepare for both the oral presentation and class debate.