The following is a lesson plan for the WebQuest.  It has been aligned with Kentucky Core Content, Academic Expectations, and the New Teacher Standards.  You may download a version of this lesson plan in Microsoft Word.  Printable Mt. Everest Lesson Plan.

Subject:  Science/Language Arts
Grade:  7th-12th grades (resource classes)
Time: 4-5 days (1 hour blocks)

Number of students:  Varies
Diversity of students:  Varies

Diversity of Classroom/Special Needs Focus:  Varies
 

Content:
Core Content Used:  SC-M-3.4.1 Biological change over time accounts for the diversity of species developed through gradual processes over many generations.  Biological adaptations include changes in structures, behaviors, or physiology that enhance survival and reproductive success in a particular environment.  SC-H-1.2.2 An element is composed of a single type of atom.  When elements are listed according to the number of protons, repeating patterns of physical and chemical properties identify families of elements with similar properties.  The periodic table is a consequence of the repeating pattern of outermost electrons. WR-H-1.4 Transactive Writing

Learning Goals and Academic Expectations:  2.1 Students understand scientific ways of thinking and working and use those methods to solve real-life problems. 4.4 Students demonstrate the ability to accept the rights and responsibilities for self and others. 6.3 Students expand their understanding of existing knowledge by making connections with new knowledge, skills, and experiences.

New Teacher Standards:   9.13 Applies research-based instructional practices that use computers and other technology.  4.1 Uses multiple assessments and sources of data.

Objectives:
1. The student will compare and contrast the Sherpas with Englishmen.
2. The student will illustrate the formation of Mt. Everest.
3. The student will label a drawing of the formation of Mt. Everest.
4. The student will discuss the challenges facing climbers.
5. The student will identify elements on the periodic table.
6. The student will utilize resources to complete various tasks.
7. The student will create a feature article.
8. The student will show effective team-membership skills when working in groups to complete the assignment.
9. The student will improve time management skills and appreciate their responsibility to complete a task.

Rationale:  Students require skills in Internet Research.  A WebQuest provides students with a directed form of research.  Furthermore, each task is based in some form of science or language arts.  Students can learn new skills and review skills learned in the past.

Activity:
1. Students will read the handout on WebQuests.
2. Students will examine the rubric to guide their work.
3. Students will research and create a graphic showing the formation of Mt. Everest.
4. Students will research and answer questions concerning Mt. Everest’s elements and the periodic table.
5. Students will research and develop a Venn Diagram showing the likes and differences of the Sherpas and an Englishman.
6. Students will write a feature article on a local hero's climb to the top of Mt. Everest.
7. Students will submit work for a grade.

Strategies:
1. The teacher will read the handout on WebQuests.
2. The teacher will test computers before sending students to work.
3. The teacher will check all links to ensure they are still working.
4. The teacher will go over the rubric with the class.
5. The teacher will monitor students while working with the computers.
6. The teacher will provide instructions, when needed.
7. The teacher will grade and return papers in a timely manner.

Resources and Materials:
Handouts
Rubrics
Computers
Colored Pencils
Link to WebQuest

Assessment:
Students will be assessed on each task (4 total).  Download the Rubric here.

Students will be assessed on their ability to stay on task and follow directions.
 

Created by:  Rheanna Plemons, 2004