Grade Levels: 2-5
Lesson by: Pat Hale

Subject areas: Life Science-Living Environment, Information Literacy

Objective: Students will use research skills to increase their knowledge of their favorite penguin.

Standard: 4.1 Diversity of Life
Plants and animals have features that help them live in different environments.
Stories sometimes give plants and animals attributes they really do not have.

Standard is from-- The Indiana Science Proficiency Guide

Time Requirement: 1 to 2 weeks

Suggested materials:

1. Internet access with Web browser
2. Print resources and online resources about penguins
3. art materials-paper, crayons, markers, paint
4. computer art software-Kidpix, HyperStudio, Paint or Draw programs

1. After students have learned about penguins in general they may select a specific penguin they would like to research.
2. Give each student an information organizer, a KWHL chart. This chart is used for planning and gathering of initial information to aid students in research projects.
   • K - Stands for helping students recall what they KNOW about the subject.
   • W - Stands for helping students determine what they WANT to learn.
   • L - Stands for helping students identify what they LEARN as they read.
   • H - Stands for HOW we can learn more (other sources where additional information on the topic can be found).
   • Once students have done this planning they will begin to do their research. Students should be hunting for information that will answer the questions they want to know. Students could be directed to use Index of Penguins. They could use the information to begin their research.
   • Encourage students to use as many different resources as possible, including online resources. It is important that students use a bibliography stating where the information was located.
   • When the information gathering is completed, then students will create some way to share this information with others. Be creative....encourage them to do something other than the traditional written report.

1. A rubric could be used to evaluate the research project for this lesson. The rubric could be as follows:
   Rubric for Evaluation of Penguin Research Project- 4 points
   • High Quality--4 points are given if:
     1. the information is factual and accurate
     2. includes a bibliography of resources including online resources
     3. includes some type of graphic display that enhances the overall project
     4. is presented in a organized and creative manner
   • Average Quality--3 points are given if: 3 of the above elements are presents
   • Below Average Quality --2 points are given if: 2 of the above elements are present
   • Poor Quality -- 1 point given if: 1 of the above elements is present
   • Failing--0 points given is: none of the above elements are present
2. Students could do the online Treasure Hunt to increase their knowledge about penguins and to improve their information literacy skills. They can submit answers and see if they are accepted into the Explorer's Hall of Fame. This online activity could be used to assess the students ability to locate and record information.