Grade Level:  Grade 7 - 8

Subject:  Science

Learner Outcomes:  The students will construct a model of a biome which will illustrate
                                   the various characteristics unique to that biome in order to demonstrate
                                   their knowledge of  biomes.

Duration of  Lesson:  1 ( 50 minute class period) and take home project

Materials:  Shoe box, various materials found within the home that the students determine can be used to represent the different components of their biome, a blank world map.

Technology Tools/ Courseware:  Computer, Power Point Slide Show

Teacher Notes:    Boxed biomes make great displays when parents are visiting the classroom.

Procedures:

             1.  Pre assignment:  Review the six major biomes using power point slide show.

             2.  Exploration:

• The students will build a three-dimensional; model of a biome in a box (shoe boxed size) using everyday materials.
• Included in the model should be representative examples of the vegetation, inhabitants (if possible), and it should show the terrain (mountainous, flats, shoreline, etc.).
• The inside should be decorated by using paint, photos, drawings, and any materials students can think of using.
• Taped onto one side of the box should be a written description of all of the characteristics of the biome (elevation, climate, vegetation, inhabitants, etc.).
• Taped onto the back side of the box should be a world map indicating by color coding the locations of the biome they created.
• The following information should be taped to the remaining side of the box:   Students name, Class period, Biome name
• Boxed biomes can then be display throughout the classroom.

Modifications:  Adjust lesson according to individuals IEPs, suggest extended time and peer tutoring.

Enrichment Activities:  The students can research, using the internet, the endangered  animals living in the biomes they created.

Extension:

     Language Arts:  The students will read a book which is set in the biome they
                                choose.

Evaluation/Assessment:  The students will be graded on the biome they create.  A rubric will be provided.

West Virginia Instructional Goals and Objectives:
              Science:   7.24, 7.28, 7.67, 7.89, 7.92, 8.24,  8.37, 8.89
              Language Arts: 7.19, 7.30, 8.15,  8.20

National Standards:

References:    Heath: Life Science, 1987.  Lexington, Massachusetts:  D.C. Heath and Company.

Authors: Cora Staten
               Cynthia Caldwell
               Paul Epperly
 
 

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