How Do I Find Out More About...?

Designed by Jeff Fouste, Gibbes Middle School

GRADE LEVEL: 8     SUBJECT: U.S. / S.C. History

FYFI (For Your Further Information): A Learning Enhancement Exercise

CORE CURRICULUM OBJECTIVE(S):  Describe political developments and key figures from the Era of Good Feelings through the Antebellum Period. (8.8.3)

OVERVIEW: In this lesson, the students are expected to write a single page report on one of the major historical figures of the Antebellum Period. A second page featuring a graphic representation of the subject as well as a time line is also required. 

NOTE: This lesson can be expanded or modified to take in any time period that you like with a modification of the Core Curriculum Objective(s).

PURPOSE/FOCUS QUESTION(S):

The purpose of this exercise is to find out more about a famous, or infamous, American of the Antebellum period. Also the students will learn more about technology through their research and reporting.

TIME FRAME: 8 class periods

RESOURCE/MATERIALS:

A. Computers with Internet Access and Microsoft Word (Students should all have attended the District's Acceptable Use Policy orientation.)

B. Students will use online resources and search engines available through the Richland Clicks instructional web sites. These include Britannica Online, Groliers, Searchopolis, Yahooligans, Infotrac, etc.

C. Students will also be expected to use "hard copy" research materials such as encyclopedias and other reference materials.

D. Pen and notebook paper.

ASSESSMENT: Students, directed by their teacher, will research an assigned subject, complete a written report, and present a brief oral reprise of their subject's life. Completion of the assignment and participation will count toward the total grade. A sample evaluation rubric has been included below.

INSTRUCTIONAL ACTIVITIES:

A. Students will participate in a teacher led introduction to the report and what will be expected in an "A" paper. The attached rubric will be presented as part of the introduction. Students will be assigned report subjects at random. The teacher must approve any switches or changes in report topics.

B. Students will, using researched information, and in their own words, write a one-page report. A graphic representation of their subject, a brief timeline of the subject's life, and a bibliography will accompany this.

C. Students will present a brief (5 minutes max.) oral report on their subject.

RUBRIC: