3rd Grade: Biomes
COURSE DESCRIPTION:
This is a science and social studies unit exploring the six land biomes of the
world. This unit explores the unique characteristics of each biome through
research of the plants and animals found in each biome. Upon acquiring
this information, the compare/contrast strategy is used to find similarities
and differences between the biomes. The students will then generate ideas
about complex topics such as man’s affect on the land, animals and plants
using the creative problem solving strategy. They will create an original
product that will serve as a debriefing tool to solve real-life problems based
on their new-found knowledge.
STANDARDS:
Gifted students will develop and practice creative thinking and creative
problem solving skills with a variety of topics within the area of study in
order to be generators of ideas and products original to the students.
Gifted students will develop advanced communication skills that
incorporate new techniques, materials, and formats in the development of
products and ideas that will be shared with real audiences.
BENCHMARKS: Creative Thinking/Creative Problem Solving (CPS)
1. Brainstorm responses to an open-ended question related to a real
issue or problem.
2. Exhibit creativity by participating in activities to increase fluency.
3. Recognize and categorize ideas about a theme with guidance from
teacher.
4. Identify and discuss problems related to ideas and concepts.
5. Gather facts about a problem while withholding immediate judgment.
6. Find multiple unique solutions to the problem.
7. Refine and revise multiple solutions.
8. Select and support with evidence the most appropriate solutions to
the problem.
This is a science and social studies unit exploring the six land biomes of the
world. This unit explores the unique characteristics of each biome through
research of the plants and animals found in each biome. Upon acquiring
this information, the compare/contrast strategy is used to find similarities
and differences between the biomes. The students will then generate ideas
about complex topics such as man’s affect on the land, animals and plants
using the creative problem solving strategy. They will create an original
product that will serve as a debriefing tool to solve real-life problems based
on their new-found knowledge.
STANDARDS:
Gifted students will develop and practice creative thinking and creative
problem solving skills with a variety of topics within the area of study in
order to be generators of ideas and products original to the students.
Gifted students will develop advanced communication skills that
incorporate new techniques, materials, and formats in the development of
products and ideas that will be shared with real audiences.
BENCHMARKS: Creative Thinking/Creative Problem Solving (CPS)
1. Brainstorm responses to an open-ended question related to a real
issue or problem.
2. Exhibit creativity by participating in activities to increase fluency.
3. Recognize and categorize ideas about a theme with guidance from
teacher.
4. Identify and discuss problems related to ideas and concepts.
5. Gather facts about a problem while withholding immediate judgment.
6. Find multiple unique solutions to the problem.
7. Refine and revise multiple solutions.
8. Select and support with evidence the most appropriate solutions to
the problem.