Something Fishy

Project URL:  http://teachersnetwork.org/IMSL/ps1/fishy/something_fishy.htm 

How it works

It is important that children learn basic research skills such as observing, and collecting and recording data. They also need to learn to draw conclusions using the data they have collected. This unit study of fish induces student interest in ordinary things in their environment such as the goldfish. They come to realize that by taking notice and applying careful observation, they can discover many new aspects of something familiar. They also learn that there are many ways to find more about a subject: personal observation, discussion among peers, consulting with knowledgeable people (the teacher), referring to printed media, accessing computer media, etc. Producing a class Big Book on the subject reinforces what they have learned and also presents a final product that validates their effort.

Something Fishy integrates many curriculum areas such as reading, writing, science, social studies, and technology.

Goals and Objectives

• Students learn to observe and take notes.
• Students learn to research information via observation, printed information, and other media.
• Students learn to compile all information to make a class Big Book.
• Students are introduced to different technology media and use them to implement their studies.

Author
Chrissy Koukiotis,
Teacher, PS1M, 
New York City Public Schools

Collaborator
Kathy Huey, 
Community School District Two Technology Staff Developer

Subjects
reading, social studies, science, technology

Class periods to complete: 12-14

Beginning Grade Level: 1
Ending Grade 
Level: 2