Content: This "Literature and Science: Organisms" assignment was created for GS4401, Science and Science Teaching in the Elementary School, Fall 2007. It was made under the advisement of this course's instructor, Jeff Goodman. Impact: In this assignment, I completed an integrated lesson plan for Language Arts and Science. I have used a picture book entitled, Verdi to help demonstrate the different life stages of a snake, particularly the green tree python. Students will also be using comprehension and writing strategies while completing this lesson. This lesson plan is suitable for second graders. I believe that second graders will gain a lot of knowledge about snakes while also practicing vital reading and writing skills throughout this lesson. This lesson plan can be found attached as a Word Document at the bottom of the page. Alignment: This "Literature and Science: Organisms" met the following North Carolina Standards for Elementary School Teachers:
Standard 3: Elementary teachers have a broad knowledge and understanding of the major concepts in science.
Indicator 1 - Teachers have knowledge of basic life science concepts including: characteristics of living things, diversity of organisms and their environments, life cycles/mutations/adaptations, structure and function of plants/animals and their parts, growth and development of organisms, health and human biology, and relationship between humans, organisms, and the environment (ecology).
--This artifact proves that I have knowledge of basic life science concepts. In my lesson plan, I have written an accuracy statement explaining the correct and incorrect elements of the book, Verdi. I have also used other resources to better my understanding about basic life concepts. Furthermore, I have written a detailed lesson plan that shows my understanding of life science concepts. For example, I have created a detailed plan for teaching the molting process of a snake by using models and hands-on demonstrations. By doing this, I have proven that I have knowledge about the basic life science concepts that I will be teaching.
Indicator 4 - Teachers have knowledge of controversial issues and how they impact learning, including evolution and genetics.
--This artifact proves that I have knowledge of controversial issues and how they impact learning, including evolution and genetics. In my lesson plan, I have provided an opportunity for students to discuss controversial issues. Using what the student's know about the green tree python, I have created a new story that helps children gain knowledge about how Verdi came about and the natural selection that has occurred.
Standard 7: Elementary teachers use developmentally appropriate strategies to design and deliver instruction in all areas of the elementary curriculum.
Indicator 2 - Teachers understand and use an interdisciplinary approach to teaching by connecting the integrating language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, healthful living, and arts concepts and processes, with appropriate technologies to enhance their learning.
--This artifact proves that I understand and use an interdisciplinary approach to teaching by connecting language arts and science. I believe that students are able to learn more about a concept, such as the life cycle for example, if they are able to relate it to other subjects across the curriculum.
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