Where did we leave off?

We are studying areas in Central and South America and the Caribbean that have rainforests, and my students have been using the Internet to research and create authentic projects related to this mysterious and beautiful region. First, we created postcards featuring one of five various rainforest pictures, which printed out black and white, providing an artisitic opportunity for students to research and color correctly animals and plant species native to this ecosystem. Many actually wanted to mail them home like real souveniers! Secondly, they researched characteristics of insects native to jungles, then designed their own brand new bug species. (Those 100+ jungle bugs now make up one of the most colorful and interesting bulletin walls in the entire school - mine!) Next, tommorow, the students will write an online travel journal after reading and looking at the graphics on several selected websites about the Amazon River. Lastly, on Thursday, my students are going to use my 30 day free trial of Inspiration software to design concept maps related to Units 1 and 2! We are finding more creative ways all the time to implement technology into the classroom effectively!