At A Glance
Overview
Students will document a science procedure. Technical writing is a skill. They will learn how to write a clear and accurate set of instructions. They will make a presentation or video which will be posted on the Internet for others to use. |
Grade Level: 5+
Time Required
2 Science Class Periods 2 Computer Class Periods Curriculum Connection: This lesson directly supports science, but can be adapted for any subject. It can also be tied in with writing class.
Vocabulary: procedures, instructions
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Tech Skills
This is dependent on the tool you use. We used Powtoon and the tech skills we used included:
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Planning Ahead
Resources
Look for a good example of a documented procedure to show students for them to emulate. If you are documenting a science procedure, then take a look at the Sick Science videos.
Consider using resources from the Read Write Think: Writing Technical Instructions Lesson Plan such as "analyzing technical instructions handout" or "technical instructions planning sheet".
Computer Application: Make sure you've installed or signed up for the application you plan to use. We used Powtoon and had to purchase an education account. Powtoon is a web-based presentation tool that includes music and animation. It brings another level of complexity and fun by introducing a timeline associated with each object in a presentation.
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Preparation
Take photos of each step of the science experiment while the students are doing it.
Have the students write the procedures down in their science lab book to use as notes for the project.
Students need to have access to the application you choose. Powtoon for education requires students to register with the school's account.
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Instructional PlanShow the students a good example of a documented procedure for them to emulate.
Their presentation should include:
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RubricThey will be graded on:
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