Carbon Cycle Unit Melanie Byers WOSAT What does your lunch, your ride to school and the polar bear’s loss of habitat have in common? (Carbon)

School Information -Our school has about 1000 students 35% of which are on free or reduced lunch. -Predominately white -I teach 7th grade science. -I have about 125 students. -I have 13 learning disabled students, 6 SED students and two autistic students

Indicators Earth and space sciences 6-8 Benchmark C 1. Explain the biogeochemical cycles which move materials between the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere Life Sciences 6-8 Benchmark C 7. Explain that photosynthetic cells convert solar energy into chemical energy that is used to carry on life functions or is transferred to consumers and used to carry on their life functions

Unit Overview Pre-test/ Essential question Intro to Carbon Cycle activity Carbon where are you? Web Carbon Cycle Notes/Photosynthesis puppet show Carbon Cycle balloon demo activity Carbon cycle project “In hot water” Global warming video Debate Post test/ Essential question

Assessments FORMATIVE: Pre test, discussion questions, drawing, web pre and post test, five finger quick assessment, captain carbon story, debate SUMMATIVE: Post test, Carbon Cycle project

Data Gathered I made my own pre and post test and the results showed that each student improved. The results of the group projects were amazing. The students made few mistakes and showed understanding of the Carbon Cycle.

Reflection I felt that the unit went great! Next year I will add more detailed directions for the debate. (a speaker would be nice.) I felt the content was mastered and the assessments were valuable. There was a nice mix of activities most of which included technology or a hands on component. Differentiation was embedded in the lessons through heterogeneous grouping and by addressing a variety of learning styles. My intervention specialist also made modifications as needed.

There you are, Captain Carbon!