Unit: Exploring the Unknown

 The Performance Based Task will consist of multiple tasks completed over the course of a few days.  Part 1 consists of closely analyzing an Anchor source, taking notes for comprehension, and answering text- dependent questions.  Part 2 offers mixed media selections that reinforce the Exploring the Unknown Unit themes. Students will take notes on all mixed media selections.  In Part 3, students will write an argument essay. This essay will allow students to apply their understanding of the mixed media sources to the anchor source.

 Determine a central idea of a text and analyze its development over the course of the text; provide an objective summary of the text. (RI.8.2)  Read and comprehend literary nonfiction at the high end of the grade 6-8 complexity band independently and proficiently. (RI.8.10)  Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence. (W.8.1)  Quote accurately from a text when explaining what the text says explicitly and when drawing inferences from the text. (RI.8.1)  Integrate information from several texts on the same topic in order to write or speak about the subject knowledgeably. (RI.8.9)

 Does technology advance our society or hinder it?

 Use Student Resource Sheet 1 to analyze the David Palumbo painting on the next slide.  Fill in as much of the chart as you can. Then answer the questions that follow on Student Resource Sheet 2.  Provide text support for each answer.

 This is the END of Day 1.  Make sure you have carefully analyzed Anchor Source 1.  Review the answers you have provided to the text-dependent questions.  Be sure you have provided evidence from the text for each of your answers!

 Preview the following supplementary texts.  Using the Cornell system, take notes on each of the texts on your own paper.  Summarize each text at the bottom of your note sheet after previewing it.  You will choose two to supplement your anchor text as the focus for your argument essay.

 Literature (fiction)  “Predictions for how we will live and work—on Earth or in space—in the decades and centuries to come” from July 2013 issue of Popular Science”  Directions:  Read the passage and take notes that demonstrate understanding of main and supporting information.  Source A Source A

 You tube clip  Directions:  The following clip is a documentary of how technology can be used to assist paraplegics.  Watch the video and summarize the information.  Source B Source B

 You Tube clip  Directions:  The following clip is a promotional video advertising the possible applications of tiny robots for military purposes.  Watch the video and summarize the information.  Source C Source C

 Informational Text (non fiction)  Directions:  Read the following article and summarize the information.  Source D Source D

 Data Chart  Review the Chart and consider what this says about Internet use among young people.  Source E Source E

 Directions:  Review information from the anchor source and at least two of the supplementary sources you analyzed and incorporate the information into a coherent, well-developed essay that argues a clear position on whether technology advances society or hinders it.  Make sure your argument is central; use evidence from the sources to support your reasoning. Avoid merely summarizing the sources. Indicate clearly from which sources you are drawing, whether through direct quotation, paraphrase, or summary.

 Complete Student Resource Sheet 3 as a graphic organizer for your 5-paragraph argument essay  Locate evidence in each source to support your claim.  Does technology advance society or hinder it?  Have a peer (or two!) complete the checklist on the back to revise your paper

 Click on the following link to download a copy of the rubric.  Please read each item on the rubric carefully to make sure you fully understand the requirements for your essay  Rubric Rubric