Learning Via the Virtual Field Trip
by Julie
Vitulano, New York
City Public Schools
On this virtual wild safari, students are invited to put themselves into their teachers' shoes to judge the academic benefits of a trip to Wild Safari at Six Flags Great Adventure. The web site is fun and easy to navigate. The design is clear and simple, so the research tasks in this unit are not too demanding. There is a section on the special accommodations for the disabled at the park that offers the students a chance to reflect upon the special needs of others and how those needs are addressed.
This unit culminates in a writing assignment, namely, writing a persuasive essay. The students are writing to persuade their teachers to approve a trip to Six Flags Great Adventure. Also of interest is the inclusion of an assessment rubric. So let's get out our binoculars, boots, and cameras and go after our furry friends for fun and knowledge.
Skills addressed:
- Identifying types of learning experiences (metacognition)
- Debating
- Researching services for the disabled
- Writing a business letter
- Using rubrics for assessment
Lessons:
Lesson One: The Art of Persuasion
Lesson Two: Preparing Arguments
Lesson Three: Services For The Disabled At Wild Safari
Lesson Four: Drafting an Essay
Lesson Five: Assessment Rubric |