1. Topic-
Solar System-
Students will be collecting, analyzing, and recording data about the Solar System, through the use of electronic sources. Students will demonstrate knowledge of the use of the computer, programs, and applications, while collaborating and problem solving.
 
2. Content-
Massachusetts Curriculum Frameworks- Technology
Grades 6-8:
1.13 Create an original spreadsheet, using formulas
1.14 Use various number formats (e.g., scientific notation, percentages, exponents) as appropriate.
1.15 Produce simple charts and graphs from a spreadsheet.
1.18 Use Web browsing to access information (e.g., enter a URL, access links, create
bookmarks/favorites, print Web pages).
1.23 Use e-mail functions and features (e.g., replying, forwarding, attachments, subject lines,
signature, and address book.)
3.2 Collect, organize, and analyze digital information from a variety of sources, with attribution.
3.5 Use and modify databases and spreadsheets to analyze data and propose solutions.
3.9 Use a variety of telecommunication tools (e.g., e-mail, discussion groups, Web pages, blogs,
Web conferences) to collaborate and communicate with peers, experts, and other audiences
(at district's discretion).
10. Compare and contrast properties and
conditions of objects in the solar system
(i.e., sun, planets, and moons) to those on
Earth (i.e., gravitational force, distance
from the sun, speed, movement,
temperature, and atmospheric conditions)
 
3. Goals: Aims/Outcomes-
1. to successfully create spreadsheets and utilize sum and average functions
2. to be able to research for data using select electronic resources
3. to successfully collect mandatory data while understanding parts of the solar system
4. to be able to collaborative with other students
5. to be able to communicate with the teacher and other students through the use of electronic sources
 
4. Objectives-
1. Students will be able to develop a spreadsheet.
2. Students will be able to utilize certain spreadsheet functions.
3. Students will gather information through selected electronic resources.
4. Students will collaborate with other students.
5. Students will learn about the solar system.
6. Students will communicate with the teacher and other students using electronic sources.
 
5. Materials and Aids-
Students will be using computers or i-Pad in the teacher's computer lab, along with the Smart Board for information.
Students will be utilizing Microsoft Excel to develop spreadsheets with the data they obtain and Microsoft Word to record ideas or information.
Students will be utilizing the Internet to obtain data.
Students will be emailing information to the teacher and peers through Microsoft Outlook and using Twiducate to reflect.
Students will have access to the Share Drive to view information that's provided to them by the teacher, including websites and the rubric.
 
6. Procedures/Methods-

A. Introduction-

1. To begin the project, the class would have a discussion about what they've learned about the Earth and Solar System.
2. Next we would open Excel and recap how to use the necessary tools and functions, with a student using the Smart Board to review for the class.
3. I would then discuss a rubric and show them what I developed. I would then ask if anyone would like to add or potentially change something on it.
4. Students would choose one partner for the project.
 

B. Development-

1. The class would begin by having a discussion about spreadsheets, with me asking the students if they remember how to use them and certain functions of it.
2. Together as a class we'd create a sample spreadsheet, during which discussion and questions would take place.
3. As a class, we'd have a review of how to use the sum and average functions.
 

C. Practice-

1. With a partner, students will create a spreadsheet based on the Solar System.
2. While doing the assignment, students will be able to ask me questions or I encourage them to ask the people around them.
3. I'd remind students to cite their resources.
 

D. Independent Practice-

1. Using the spreadsheet the students and I created as a reference, students will practice the sum and average functions on their own spreadsheets.
2. I'd remind students to cite their resources.
 

E. Accommodations (Differentiated Instruction)-

1. Students on IEPs will have accommodations.
2. I'd allow students to check their work using a calculator for students who are lower level or who need to.
3. If an aide is available, I'd have one in the classroom to help students with myself.
4. I'd provide low lever students additional information about the Solar System.
 

F. Checking for understanding-

1. Students will have the opportunity to present information if they'd like to. Additional points would be given.
2. All students would email me their spreadsheets and I'd post them to the Share Drive for all to see.
3. Students will access themselves and students will be able to ask questions after viewing others' spreadsheets on the Share Drive.
 

G. Closure-

1. Students will answer a question or two on Twiducate that I ask them.
2. Students will give a final reflection through email to me.
 
7. Evaluation-
1. Students will be evaluated using a rubric.
2. A graded rubric with necessary comments would be provided to them through email after the project is completed.
 
8. Teacher Reflection-
A graded rubric with necessary comments and feedback would be provided to them through email after the project is completed.
 

This Lesson Plan is available at (www.teacherjet.com)