Overview

Lesson 1

Lesson 2

Lesson 3

Standards

Partners in Time Kits:

Authors: Elissa Miller Subject(s): Science Grade Level: 9th

Problem:

Tropical rain forests are the world's richest forests. Rain forests are home to over 50% of the world's plants and animal species, supply the ingredients for 25% of our prescription drugs, provide 40% of the world's oxygen, and have 70% of the plants used to make cancer treatment drugs.

Rain forests are being cut down for many reasons including using the lumber for building and furniture making and using the land beneath the rain forest for farming and mining. Millions of people also depend on the rain forest for their home. They use the forest products for food, clothing, and shelter. Many people also need the jobs provided by the cutting down of the rain forest.

The problem we are currently facing involves the Department of the Environment in Mexico. They are currently studying the rain forest situation of Mexico, and are in the process of deciding whether or not to allow a large portion of the rain forest to be cut down.

Unit Overview:

This unit allows the students to critically think about rainforest destruction and the impact it has on the world. They will have an opportunity to use higher order thinking skills to analyze, research, role play, debate, and re-analyze the problem stated above.

Pre Assessment

Post Assessment

Credits and References:

Martin, Laura (1996). Montgomery County Public Schools. Retrieved October 28, 2007, from Economics lesson Web site: http://www.mcps.k12.md.us/curriculum/socialStd/grade3/Econ_Interd.html

(2007). RubiStar. Retrieved October 29, 2007, from Class Debates Web site: http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php

(2007). RubiStar. Retrieved October 29, 2007, from Collaborative Working Skills Web site: http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php

(2007). RubiStar. Retrieved October 29, 2007, from Oral Presentations Web site: http://rubistar.4teachers.org/index.php