Discovering Habitats

This month, I have shifted our studies to learning about various habitats in the world, with a focus on the Tropical Rainforests.  To prepare students for this investigation, we did a little research about different habitats (desert, grasslands, ocean, arctic and jungle) Each group used the iPads to examine images and presented their findings to the group.

When each group presented, questions began to emerge.  Some examples: "Why are polar bears white?", "What is the difference between the Arctic and Antarctic?", "Why are there lots of trees in the jungle?", "Where are the jungles?", and Why is it so hot in the desert?"  These questions showed me that the students were thinking about what they were examining, and beginning think about information that is important when learning something new.  Next week, we will be reading non-fiction books about the Amazon Rainforest, and begin to separate factual information to be presented in a report and powerpoint presentation.