1st Edition

Survive and Thrive A Life Science Unit for High-Ability Learners in Grades K-1

    154 Pages
    by Prufrock Press

    Survive and Thrive, a life science unit for grades K-1, provides students an opportunity to study animals, their characteristics, and their natural environments. The overarching concept of change guides students as they use webcams to distinguish the features of animals, determine their basic needs to survive, and observe animals in their habitats.

    Survive and Thrive was developed by the Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary to offer advanced curriculum supported by years of research. The Center's materials have received national recognition from the United States Department of Education and the National Association for Gifted Children, and they are widely used both nationally and internationally.

    Each of the books in this series offers curriculum that focuses on advanced content and higher level processes. The science units contain simulations of real-world problems, and students experience the work of real science by using data-handling skills, analyzing information, and evaluating results. The mathematics units provide sophisticated ideas and concepts, challenging extensions, higher order thinking skills, and opportunities for student exploration based on interest. These materials are a must for any teacher seeking to challenge and engage learners and increase achievement.

    Grades K-1

    Part I: Unit Overview Introduction to the Clarion Units Teacher’s Guide to Content Unit Glossary Teaching Resources Part II: Lesson Plans Lesson Plans Overview of Lessons Preassessment Lesson 1: What Is a Scientist? Lesson 2: What Is Change? Lesson 3: What Scientists Do—Observe, Question, Learn More Lesson 4: What Scientists Do—Experiment, Create Meaning, Tell Others Lesson 5: What Is a Life Cycle? Lesson 6: What Is the Life Cycle of a Mealworm? Lesson 7: What Are the Requirements for Life? Lesson 8: What Do Plants Need to Thrive? Lesson 9: How Do Animals Look Different? Lesson 10: What Is an Appendage? Lesson 11: How Can We Classify Animals? Lesson 12: What Have We Learned About Animals and Plants? Postassessment Appendix A: Concept Paper on Change Appendix B: Teaching Models Appendix C: Basic Concepts in Early Childhood Appendix D: Materials List References Next Generation Science Standards Alignment

    Biography

    The Center for Gifted Education at The College of William and Mary, a research and development center, was established in 1988 under the direction of Dr. Joyce VanTassel-Baska. The center provides services to educators, policy makers, graduate students, researchers, parents, and students in support of the needs of gifted and talented individuals. Located in Williamsburg, VA, the center has established a national reputation for excellence in research, curriculum development, and service. Several major grants, including funding from the Jacob K. Javits Gifted and Talented Students Education Act, have provided significant support for the work of the Center.

    A keen interest in science is something that should be nurtured. “Survive and Thrive: Project Clarion Science Unit for Primary Grades” is a guide for teachers and administrators on how to emphasize science for gifted and talented students who have just started their schooling in kindergarten and first grades. These years are vital, and much info is provided to nurture the students during this time. “Survive and Thrive” is a fine resource for any elementary school science teacher or administrator.,Midwest Book Review, 8/1/10