Penguin paradise
Students will demonstrate their understanding of how to communicate statements of information through the composition of a one paragraph summary about a penguin.
A lesson plan for grade 1 English Language Arts and Science
Learn more
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Related topics
- Learn more about animals, biology, language arts, penguins, read-alouds, and science.
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Learning outcomes
Students will:
- Learn where penguins live, what they look like, what kinds of food they eat, and other interesting facts.
- Demonstrate this understanding through writing.
Teacher planning
Time required for lesson
2 days
Materials/resources
- Penguins Through the Year by Robin Bernard
- chart paper
- first grade writing paper
- pencils
- graphic organizers
- rubric
Technology resources
- access to the computer lab
- internet connection
Pre-activities
- Students should know that sentences begin with capital letters and end with periods, question marks, or exclamation points.
- Teacher should model how to compose a paragraph that includes the use of statements of information.
- Students should have a clear understanding of how to write statements of information.
- Teacher should provide students with a rubric.
Activities
- Briefly review the definition of statements of information and how sentences should begin and end.
- Explain to students that we will be writing statements of information about penguins.
- Complete whole class KWL chart to see what students already know about penguins and what they would like to learn.
- Read the book Penguins Through the Year by Robin Bernard. Ask questions to check for comprehension.
- Complete animal graphic organizer to use as an aid in writing the paragraph.
- Go over rubric.
- Write a five sentence paragraph about penguins.
- Once writing is complete reread your rough draft for mistakes. Trade papers with a partner and make any necessary corrections. Draw a picture to go with your writing.
- Summarize lesson by completing the what we learned section of the KWL chart.
- Extension activities: Visit the website listed to learn more about the different kinds of penguins. Challenge your students to complete the online quiz.
Assessment
Use the rubric and completion of KWL chart to determine student understanding. Use a penguin quiz from Enchanted Learning.
There is also a checklist.
Supplemental information
Attachment:
animal grid
North Carolina Curriculum Alignment
English Language Arts (2004)
Grade 1
- Goal 5: The learner will apply grammar and language conventions to communicate effectively.
- Objective 5.06: Self-monitor composition by using one or two strategies (e.g., rereading, peer conferences).
Science (2005)
Kindergarten
- Goal 1: The learner will make observations and build an understanding of similarities and differences in animals.
- Objective 1.01: Observe and describe the similarities and differences among animals including:
- Structure.
- Growth.
- Changes.
- Movement.
- Objective 1.01: Observe and describe the similarities and differences among animals including:
