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Task Descriptions |
Enigmas is a science unit that allows students to study a naturally occurring enigma, an unsolved mystery, using scientific research methods. Students will explore in depth an enigma and develop a hypothesis that proposes a solution to his/her chosen mystery. Students will also be able to see how different fields of science fit together and the similarities and differences among the different fields.
The Gift of Age is an English language arts unit that allows students to explore the reality of the process of aging while using research and interviewing methods. This project generates an understanding of elderly persons in our communities. It promotes mutual understanding among young and old individuals as they interact to learn more about themselves and others.
Innovation Celebration is an interdisciplinary unit that allows students to investigate the process of innovative thinking and to study why society calls for certain inventions at certain times. Students will gain an understanding of the process of innovation. Students will also develop an understanding of contributions that individuals have made to society and appreciate the impact of these contributions over time. By studying and "interacting with" famous inventors, scientists, thinkers, and philosophers, students will celebrate the spirit of innovation.
Math Around Town is a mathematics unit that allows students to discover the uses of math in the real world, using interviews with professionals who need math skills for their jobs. Students must create one of the following: 1) a board game based on Math Curse, 2) a learning center for another grade level that demonstrates how at least five mathematical skill areas are used in a particular career, or 3) a math scavenger hunt.
We Are Texans is a social studies unit that allows students to study the differences between their own communities and those of others, researching what it would be like to live in other places. This project generates a deeper understanding of population groups that settled Texas. Students will create a museum display that illustrates the contributions of the group of immigrants to Texas. Students will also assume the role of a docent who explains the display to a group of fourth graders who are visiting the museum.
Opening Doors is a guide for projects that do not align with any of the other tasks. Teachers provide the TEKS connections and design the learning experiences. Students and teachers should work together to ensure that the project demonstrates the scoring dimensions.