Learning Teams Research About Mexico

Subjects:  Math, Language Arts, Science, Social Studies

Grade:  2

Technology tools:  Computer(s), LCD Projector, Document Camera

Tools used:  Interactive website, Collaboration tool

Activity type:  Lesson, Unit, Research

Learning Objectives / Student I can... Statements:  I can use the computer to research facts and maps to answer questions about the country of Mexico.  I can use the computer and books to research facts about Mexico to create a poster in a cooperative group.

Students had to research information online and through websites to answer the following questions about Mexico:

1. Is Mexico north or south of the United States?

2. Is Mexico bigger or smaller than the United States?

3. What oceans are next to the country of Mexico?

Students accessed several websites as a Learning Team to find facts about the country of Mexico for their poster.  They had to include facts about the national flower, animal, tree, drink, dance, bird, and song on their poster.  Learnnig Teams also had to access a website on Mexico to research and color the national flag.  Teams also had the opportunity to watch the Mexican Hat Dance as well as other types of dances using the projector.

Websites Used:

About Mexico: http://www.visitmexico.com/en-us/about-mexico                                            

http://www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/35749.htm           

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexico

Mexico Hat Dance Video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_mru5qKHEss         

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qRQrNm8PTs&feature=related          

State Animals: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_national_animals

Students had a rubric to complete to evaluate their participation within their group and their group's participation and ability to work together.  The posters that each Learning Team created were evaluated using a rubric.  This ensured they included all parts required for the poster and created a creative display for Mexico.

The activity was very successful.  Learning Teams created informative and aesthetically pleasing posters that were displayed in the school.  When I have my class participate in this project again, I will allow teams to include some interesting facts that they choose as a separate section on the poster.

Peter Rothenberger,  Longview