Student Page

The Cycles of Nature

The Mission

The Museum of Science and Industry has asked our school to assist them in developing an exhibit on life cycles of various living and non-living things.  We will assist the museum by designing mini exhibits. 

You will work in cooperative groups to study specific cycles of nature to determine the role of these various elements on survival. You will assume the role of a writer, a presenter, an explorer and a photographer/graphic artist as you learn about the natural dynamics involved in each cycle. 

You will present your findings to the Museum of Science and Industry as you design an exhibit incorporating illustrations, charts, graphs, and written statements.

The presentation can take the form of posters, charts, graphs and a speaker/presenter, or it can be done via PowerPoint presentation.  A presenter is necessary in either case.

The Process

Week 1

In order to answer the questions in this project you will first need to define and understand the words and phrases mentioned in the assignment. 

Using the resources given, each group will create a list of definitions for the following words/phrases.

Week 2

Use this week to choose the cycle of nature that your group will research. Every student in the group will   research/explore the cycle you have chosen.

• Remember to keep in the mind the definitions and phrases you completed in week 1.

• Decide on a time to meet and discuss your findings.

• The recorder will begin writing the first draft of your final report the first time you meet and every time you meet.

 Week 3

       Compare and combine your findings as the first step in  preparing your final draft.

• Check to see that your report has answered most or all of the questions asked of you.

• Prepare an outline of the areas that you wish to address and be sure that you have covered every topic you wish to discuss. (see example below)

• Make sure that you use your spell checker with words that you are uncertain about.

• Using the sample outline format, you can now begin the final report.  Write the report all out.  Read your paper aloud within the group and silently.  Re-Write after the corrections have been made and then read aloud again.

• Ask for suggestions and opinions from other teachers and students that you may possibly consider their opinion.

• Be certain that your pictures and drawings are clear.

• Label the areas on your drawings that you want your audience to pay special attention.

• The presenter should work closely with the entire organization of the presentation. He/she will have to present and explain everything the group prepares.

Making a simple outline:

Introduction

• What is the topic of your speech/project?

• Why should the audience listen to your speech/project ?

• What will your main points be?

The Body

• What are your main points and ideas (sub-topics)?

• What is your supporting evidence and information (sub-sub-topics)?

The Conclusion

• What were the main points of your speech, and what do you want the audience to remember? 

 Week 4

• Your presentation should be done very well. Practice the verbal part of your presentation several times out loud until you feel comfortable with it.

• Make sure that your writer /recorder has checked the spelling and grammar of your report.

• Be fairly certain that you understand your report well enough to present it to your fellow classmates.

• Your entire should dress in uniform and neatly the day of the presentation.  Do not wear anything that will draw attention from your presentation to you.  Your goal is to capture the attention of your classmates and keep it throughout your presentation.

• You can create interest by making things interesting, drawing colorful charts and pictures and knowing your work.

• Speak clearly and loudly enough so that everyone can hear and understand you.

• Stand up straight and look at your classmates.  Do not look down as you read your report.

• Present the work in the order of your outline. 

• Relax and feel confident that you have done a great job!