texas plt · 1 project learning tree correlation to the texas essential knowledge and skills theme:...

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PROJECT LEARNING TREECorrelation to the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills

Theme: DiversityLesson 1 pages 3-4: The Shape of Things - Overview: As humans we depend on all of our senses touching, tasting, hearing, smelling, and seeing__to gatherimpressions of our environment. Our brain sorts out the diversity of sizes, colors, and shapes that we see. In this activity students will focus their eyes on themany shapes that define both our natural and built environment.PLT Objectives: Students will identify common shapes appearing in the natural and built environment as a way of understanding the function ofshapesPLT Skills: Identify attributes and components, Observe, Organize information, Compare/ Contrast

GradeLevel

PTLLesson

Correlation/TEKS Language Arts Correlation/TEKS Mathematics Correlation/TEKS Science Correlation/TEKS Social Studies

PreK -K

1 K.4.A (p.A-8)Learn the vocabulary of school suchas numbers, shapes, colors,directions, and categories

K.9.C (p.A-3)Describe, identify, and comparecircles, triangles, and rectanglesincluding squares

K.4.A (p.A-2)Identify and use senses as tools ofobservation

K.15.B (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, print materials, andartifacts

1 1 1,4.A (p.A-27)Learn the vocabulary of school suchas numbers, shapes, colors,directions, and categories

1.6.B (p.A-6)Identify circles, triangles, andrectangles, including squares

1.4.B (p.A-5)Record and compare collectedinformation

1.17.B (p.A-9)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,television, maps, computerimages, literature, and artifacts

2 1 2.20.B (p.A-63)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists, andshowing

2.7.A (p.A-9)Identify attributes of any shape orsolid

2.4.A (p.A-2)Identify and use senses as tools ofobservation

2.17.B (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,television, maps, computerimages, literature, artifacts

3 1 3.20.B (p.A-63)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists, andshowing

3.9.A (p.A-13)Identify congruent shapes

3.4.A (p.A-11)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, cameras, safetygoggles, sound recorders, clockscomputers, thermometers, handlenses, meter sticks, rulers,balances, magnets, and compasses

3.15B (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, print materials, artifacts

2

Lesson 2 pages 5-6: Get in Touch With Trees - Overview: In this activity students will explore and discover their sense of touch why touch is important toanimals, including themselves.PLT Objective: Students will (1)become aware of how the bark of different trees varies in texture and (2) describe textures found in leaves/other treeparts.PLT Skills: Identify attributes and component, Observe, Make analogies and metaphor, Compare/ Contrast, Classify and Categorize

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK -K

2 K.4.B (p.A-8)Use vocabulary to describe clearlyideas, feelings, and experiences

K.8.A (p.A-2)Describe/identify an object by itsattributes using informal language

K.5.A (p.A-2)Describe properties ofobjects and characteristics oforganisms

K.15.B (p.A-4)Sequence and categorize information

1 2 1.4.B (p.A-27)Use vocabulary to describe clearlyideas, feelings, and experiences

1.6.A (p.A-6)Describe/identify objects in orderto sort them according to a givenattribute using informal language

1.6.B (p.A-6)Observe and describe theparts of plants and animals

1.17.C (p.A-9)Sequence and categorize information


2.6.C (p.A-9)Identify, describe, and extendpatterns to make predictions and tosolve problems

2.5.A (p.A-8)Classify and sequenceorganisms, objects, andevents based on propertiesand patterns

2.17.D (p.A-14)Sequence and categorize information

3 2 3.8.D (p.A-80)Demonstrate knowledge of multi-meaning words by sorting/classifying/identifying related words

3.16.A (p.A-14)Explain and record observationsusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology

3.10.A (p.A-13)Identify some inherited traitsof plants

3.16.B (p.A-19)Sequence and categorize information

4 2 4.15.C (p.A-111)Write to inform such as to explain,describe, report, and narrate


4.2.B(A-14)Collect information byobserving and measuring

4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information by sequencing,categorizing, identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing/ contrasting,finding the main idea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, and drawinginferences/ conclusions



5.2.B (A-18)Collect information byobserving and measuring

5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information by sequencing,categorizing, identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing/ contrasting,finding the main idea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, and drawinginferences/ conclusions

3

6 2 6.15.C (p.B-17)Write to inform such as to explain,describe, report, and narrate

6.11.D (p.B-4)Select tools such as real objects,manipulatives, paper/pencil, andtechnology to solve problems

6.2.B (p.B-2)Collect information byobserving and measuring

6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information by sequencing,categorizing, identifying cause/effect,comparing/ contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, making generalizations/predictions/inferences/ conclusions

Lesson 3 pages 7-8: The Peppermint Beetle - Overview: In this activity students will explore their sense of smell and discover why smell is important toanimals, including themselves.PLT Objective: Students will (1) describe various ways animals use their sense of smell, (2) explain way some animals use scent marking, and (3) identifythe importance of the sense of smell in our daily livesPLT Skills: Reason, Discuss, Identify relationships and patterns, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK -K

3 K.4.B (p.A-8)Use vocabulary to describe clearlyideas, feelings, and experiences

K.8.A (p.A-2)Describe and identify an object byits attributes using informallanguage

K.5.A (p.A-2)Describe properties of objects andcharacteristics of organisms

K.15.B (p.A-4)Sequence and categorizeinformation


1.6.A (p.A-6)Describe and identify objects inorder to sort them according to agiven attribute using informallanguage

1.2.C (p.A-5)Gather information using simpleequipment and tools to extend thesenses

1.17.C (p.A-9)Sequence and categorizeinformation


2.6.C (p.A-9)Identify, describe, and extendpatterns to make predictions andto solve problems

2.2.D (p.A-8)Gather information using simpleequipment and tools to extend thesenses

2.17.D (p.A-14)Sequence and categorizeinformation

3 3 3.8.D (p.A-80)Demonstrate knowledge of multi-meaning words by sorting,classifying, and identifying relatedwords


3.2.C (p.A-11)Analyze and interpret informationto construct reasonableexplanations from direct andindirect evidence

3.16.B (p.A-19)Sequence and categorizeinformation

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4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparing and contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions, anddrawing inferences and conclusions

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Lesson 3 pages 7-8: The Peppermint Beetle - Overview: In this activity students will explore their sense of smell and discover why smell is important toanimals, including themselves.PLT Objective: Students will (1) describe various ways animals use their sense of smell, (2) explain way some animals use scent marking, and (3) identifythe importance of the sense of smell in our daily livesPLT Skills: Reason, Discuss, Identify relationships and patterns, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson





5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparing and contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions, anddrawing inferences and conclusions


6.10.D (p.B-3)Solve problems by collecting,organizing, displaying, andinterpreting data

6.2.C (p.B-2)Analyze and interpret informationto construct reasonableexplanations from direct andindirect evidence

6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparing and contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions, anddrawing inferences and conclusions

6

Lesson 4 pages 9-12: Sounds Around - Overview: Our ears are constantly being bombarded with sound__so much so that we automatically “tune out” alot of it. Some sounds are “music to our ears,” while other can annoy us and even damage the delicate structures in our ears. Try this activity to help yourstudents “tune in” to the sounds in their environment and to help them identify and lessen local noise problems.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify sounds and map their location in the environment; (2) explain how noise can be a problem in thecommunity, (3) create and carry out a plan to lessen a local noise problem, and (4) study a Greek myth about sounds in nature.PLT Skills: Classify, Categorize, Organize information, Identify relationships and patterns, Problem Solving

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-KPart A

4 K.10.A (p.A-11)Listen to stories being read aloud

K.7.B (p.A-2)Place an object in a specifiedposition

K.7.A (p.A-3)Observe, describe, and recordchanges in size, mass, color,position, quantity, time,temperature, sound, and movement

K.16.B (p.A-4)Create and interpret visualsincluding pictures and maps

1 4 1.13.A (p.A-34)Listen to stories being read aloud

1.11.B (p.A-7)Use a problem-solving model, withguidance as needed, that incorporatesunderstanding the problem, makinga plan, carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness

1.7.A (p.A-6)Observe, describe, and recordchanges in size, mass, color,position, quantity, time,temperature, sound, and movement

1.18.B (p.A-9)Create visual and written materialincluding pictures, maps,timelines, and graphs

2 4 2.10.A (p.A-56)Respond to stories and poems inways that reflect understanding andinterpretation in discussion(speculating, questioning) in writing,and through movement, music, art,and drama

2.12.C (p.A-10)Select or develop an appropriateproblem-solving strategy includingdrawing a picture, looking for apattern, systematic guessing andchecking, or acting it out in order tosolve a problem

2.7.A (p.A-9)Observe, describe, and recordchanges in size, mass, color,position, quantity, time,temperature, sound, and movement

2.18.B (p.A-14)Create written and visual materialsuch as stories, poems, maps,and graphic organizers to expressideas

3 4 3.10.A (p.A-82)Respond to stories and poems inways that reflect understanding andinterpretation in discussion(speculating, questioning) in writing,and through movement, music, art,and drama

3.15.B (p.A-14)Use a problem-solving model that incorporatesunderstanding the problem, makinga plan, carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness

3.4.A (p.A-11)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, cameras, safetygoggles, sound recorders, clocks,computers, thermometers, handlenses, meter sticks, rulers,balances, magnets, and compasses

3.16.E (p.A-19)Interpret and create visualsincluding graphs, charts, tables,timelines, illustrations and maps

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GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 4 4.12.G (p.A-109)Understand literary forms byrecognizing and distinguishingamong such types of text stories,poems, myths, fables, tall tales,limericks, plays, biographies, andautobiographies

4.14.B(p.A-18)Use a problem-solving model thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness

4.4.A(p.A-15)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, camera, safetygoggles, sound recorders, clocks,computers, thermometers, handlenses, meter sticks, rulers,balances, magnets, andcompasses

4.22.C (p.A-27)Organize and interpret informationin outlines, reports, databases, andvisuals including graphs, charts,timelines, and maps

5 4 5.12.G (p.A-138)Understand literary forms byrecognizing and distinguishingamong such types of text stories,poems, myths, fables, tall tales,limericks, plays, biographies, andautobiographies

5.14.B (p.A-22)Use a problem-solving model thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness

5.4.A (p.A-19)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, cameras, soundrecorders, computers, handlenses, rulers, thermometers,compasses, balances, hot plates,meter sticks, timing devices,magnets, collecting nets, andsafety goggles


6 4 6.12.E (p.B-14)Understand literary forms byrecognizing and distinguishingamong such types of text stories,poems, myths, fables, tall tales,limericks, plays, biographies, andautobiographies

6.11.B (p.B-4)Use a problem-solving model thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness

6.4.A (p.B-3)Collect, analyze, and recordinformation using toolsincluding beakers, petri dishes,meter sticks, graduated cylinders,weather instruments, timingdevices, hot plates, test tubes,safety goggles, spring scales,magnets, balances, microscopes,telescopes, thermometers,calculators, field equipment,compasses, computers, andcomputer probes

6.22.D (p.B-8)Create written and visual materialsuch as journal entries, reports,graphic organizers, outlines, andbibliographies

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GradeLevel

PLTLesson


7 4 7.12.E (p.B-43)Understand literary forms byrecognizing and distinguishing amongsuch types of text stories, poems,myths, fables, tall tales, limericks,plays, biographies, andautobiographies

7.13.B (p.B-8)Use a problem-solving modelthat incorporates understandingthe problem, making a plan,carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness

7.2.E (p.B-6)Construct graphs, tables, maps,and charts using tools includingcomputers to organize, examine,and evaluate data

7.21.C (p.B-15)Organize and interpretinformation from outlines,reports, databases, and visualsincluding graphs, charts,timelines, and maps

8 4 8.12.E (p.B-65)Understand literary forms byrecognizing and distinguishing amongsuch types of text stories, poems,myths, fables, tall tales, limericks,plays, biographies, autobiographies,tragedy, and comedy

8.14.B (p.B-13)Use a problem-solving modelthat incorporates understandingthe problem, making a plan,carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness

8.4.A (p.B-12)Collect, record, and analyzeinformation using tools includingbeakers, petri dishes, meter sticks,graduated cylinders, weatherinstruments, hot plates, dissectingequipment, test tubes safetygoggles, spring scales, balances,microscopes, telescopes,thermometers, calculators, fieldequipment, computers, computerprobes, water test kits, and timedevices

8.30.C (p.B-27)Organize and interpretinformation from outlines, reports, databases, andvisuals including graphs, charts,timelines, and maps

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Lesson 5 pages 13-15: Poet-Tree - Overview: Writing and sharing poems will give your students an opportunity to express their feelings, values, andbeliefs about the environment and related issues in creative artistic ways.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) express their feelings and attitudes about the environment using various forms of poetry and (2) analyze their ownand other people’s poetry to discover its full meaning.PLT Skills: Observe, Compose, Discuss

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 5 3.14.D (p.A-85)Write in different forms for differentpurposes such as lists to record, lettersto invite or thank, and stories orpoems to entertain

3.7.B (p.A-13)Identify patterns in a table ofrelated number pairs based on areal-life situation and extend thetable

3.10.A (p.A-13)Identify some inherited traits ofplants

3.17.B (p.A-20)Create written and visual materialsuch as stories, poems, pictures,maps, and graphic organizers toexpress ideas

4 5 4.15.A (p.A-111)Write to express, discover, record,develop, reflect on ideas, and toproblem solve

4.14.A (p.A-18)Identify mathematics in everydaysituations

4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemssuch as plants in a schoolyard, andparts in nonliving systems such asa light bulb in a circuit

4.23.D (p.A-28)Create written and visual materialsuch as journal entries, reports,graphic organizers, outlines, andbibliographies



5.9.B (p.A-20)Analyze and describe adaptivecharacteristics that result in anorganism’s unique niche in anecosystem


6 5 6.15.A (p.B-17)Write to express, discover, record,develop, reflect on ideas, and toproblem solve

6.11.A (p.B-4)Identify and apply mathematics toeveryday experiences, to activitiesin and outside of school, withother disciplines, and with othermathematical topics

6.2.B (p.B-2)Collect data by observing andmeasuring





7.22.D (p.B-16)Create written, oral, and visualpresentations of social studiesinformation


8.14.A (p.B-12)Identify and apply mathematics toeveryday experiences, to activitiesin and outside of school, withother disciplines, andmathematical topics



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Lesson 6 pages 16-17: Picture This! - Overview: In this activity students can learn about the diversity of life on earth by looking at different plants andanimalsfrom around the world.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify similarities and differences between organisms by collecting pictures and categorizing them and (2)comprehend the connection between diverse organisms and the diverse environments in which they live.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify, Categorize, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

6 K.15.B (p.A-14)Write labels, notes, and captions forillustrations, possessions, charts,centers

K.8.C (p.A-2)Sort objects according to theirattributes and describe how thosegroups are formed

K.6.A (p.A-3)Sort organisms and objects intogroups according to their partsand describe how thegroups are formed

K.16.B (p.A-4)Create and interpret visualsincluding pictures and map

1 6 1.18.B (p.A-38)Write labels, notes, and captions forillustrations, possessions, charts,centers


1.6.A (p.A-5)Sort organisms and objectsaccording to their parts andcharacteristics


2 6 2.12.G (p.A-56)Identify similarities and differencesacross texts such as topics,characters, and problems

2.7.B (p.A-9)Use attributes to describe how twoshapes or solids are alike ordifferent

2.5.A (p.A-8)Classify and sequence organisms,objects, and events based onproperties and patterns

2.18.B (p.A-14)Create written and visual materialsuch as stories, poems, maps,graphic organizers to express ideas

3 6 3.12.H (p.A-84)Demonstrate learning throughproductions and displays such as oraland written reports, murals, anddramatizations

3.17.A (p.A-14)Make generalizations from patternsor sets of examples and non-examples

3.8.B (p.A-12)Observe and identify organismswith similar needs that competewith one another for resources suchas oxygen, water, food, or space

3.17.B (p.A-20)Create written and visual materialsuch as stories, poems, maps,graphic organizers to express ideas

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Lesson 7 pages 18-19: Habitat Pen Pals - Overview: From icy tundra to scorching deserts to salty oceans, the world’s habitats are diverse and fascinating.Each habitat, with its own special set of conditions, supports animals and plants adapted to living in it. By becoming “habitat pen pals,” your students willlearn about the diversity of habitats around the world, and will write letters about the diversity of organisms living in these habitats.PLT Objectives: Students (1) explain the relationship between climate conditions and habitat, (2) identify relationships between organisms withinhabitats, and (3) distinguish between kinds of animals that live in a habitat.PLT Skills: Research, Classify, Categorize, Organize information, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 7 3.14.A (p.A-85)Write to record ideas and reflections

3.14.A (p.A-14)Collect, organize, record, anddisplay data in pictographs and bargraphs where each picture or cellmight represent more than onepiece of data

3.8.A (p.A-12)Observe and describe the habitats oforganisms within an ecosystem

3.4.A (p.A-16)Describe and explain variations inthe physical environmentincluding climate, landforms,natural resources, and naturalhazards



4.8.A (p.A-16)Identify characteristics that allowmembers within a species tosurvive and reproduce

4.7.B (p.A-23)Describe a variety of regions inTexas and the Western hemispheresuch as political, population, andeconomic regions that result frompatterns of human activity

5 7 5.15.A (p.A-141)Write to express, discover, develop,reflect on ideas, and to problem solve



5.7.B (p.A-31)Describe a variety of regions inthe United States such aslandform, climate, and vegetationregions that result from physicalcharacteristics



6.12.C (p.B-5)Identify components of anecosystem to which organismsmay respond

6.4.B (p.B-2)Identify and explain thegeographic factors responsible forpatterns of population in placesand regions

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Lesson 8 pages 20-23: The Forest of S.T. Shrew - Overview: By taking a “shrew’s eyeview” of life in the woods, your students will gain an appreciationfor the variety of living things that make forests their homes, and for the variety of habitats within forests.PLT Objectives: Students (1) identify microhabitats in the forest by drawing pictures or writing a story describing a microhabitat and (2) describesome of the plants and animals that characterize microhabitats.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Form concepts, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 8 1.12.F (p.A-34)Make and explain inferences fromtexts such as determining importantideas and causes and effects, makingpredictions, and drawing conclusions

1.13 (p.A-7)Reason and support his or herthinking using objects, words,pictures, number, and technology

1.9.A (p.A-6)Identify characteristics of livingorganisms that allow their basicneeds to be met

1.17.D (p.A-9)Identify main ideas from oral,visual, and print sources


2.14 (p.A-11)Reason and support his or herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology

2.9.A (p.A-9)Identify the external characteristicsofdifferent kinds of plant andanimals that allow their needs tobe met

2.17.E (p.A-14)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, predicting, and comparingand contrasting


3.17.B (p.A-14)Justify why an answer is reasonableand explain the solution process

3.8.B(p.A-12)Observe and identify organismswith similar needs that competewith one another for resourcessuch as oxygen, water, food, orspace

3.16.C (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, predicting, and comparingand contrasting

4 8 4.10.H (p.A-107)Draw inferences such as conclusionsor generalizations and support themwith text evidence and experience


4.8.B (p.A-16)Compare adaptive characteristicsof various species

4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying, cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/ conclusions

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Lesson 8 pages 20-23: The Forest of S.T. Shrew - Overview: By taking a “shrew’s eyeview” of life in the woods, your students will gain an appreciationfor the variety of living things that make forests their homes, and for the variety of habitats within forests.PLT Objectives: Students (1) identify microhabitats in the forest by drawing pictures or writing a story describing a microhabitat and (2) describesome of the plants and animals that characterize microhabitats.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Form concepts, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




5.9.A (p.A-20)Compare the adaptivecharacteristics of species thatimprove their ability to surviveand reproduce in an ecosystem

5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying, cause-and effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

6 8 6.10.H (p.B-12)Draw inferences such as conclusionsor generalizations and support themwith text evidence and experience

6.11.C (p.B-4)Select or develop an appropriateproblem-solving strategy from avariety of different types, includingdrawing a picture, looking for apattern, systematic guessing andchecking, acting it out, making atable, working a simpler problem,or working backwards


6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying, cause-and effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

14

Lesson 9 pages 24-26: Planet of Plenty - Overview: In this activity students will pretend they are visitors from outer space, viewing life on Earth for thefirst time. By Describing, in minute detail, all the life they find in a small plot of land, they will become more aware of the diversity of life on earth and willbetter understand its importance.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) investigate the diversity of plants and animals on a small plot of land and (2) explain the value of a diversity oflife forms in a particular ecosystem.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Classify, Categorize, Draw Conclusions

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 9 4.21.C (p.A-116)Take notes from relevant andauthoritative sources such as guestspeakers, periodicals, and on-linesearches

4.15.A (p.A-18)Explain and record observationusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology

4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in livingsystems such as plants in aschoolyard, and parts in nonlivingsystems such as a light bulb in acircuit

4.24.A (p.A-28)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list and consideroptions, consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose andimplement a solution, and evaluatethe effectiveness of the solution


5.15.A (p.A-22)Explain and record observationusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology

5.9.C (p.A-20)Predict some adaptivecharacteristics required for survivaland reproduction by an organismin an ecosystem


6 9 6.20.C (p.B-22)Take notes from relevant andauthoritative sources such as guestspeakers, periodicals, and on-linesearches



6.23.A (p.B-8)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list and consideroptions, consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose andimplement a solution, and evaluatethe effectiveness of the solution

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Lesson 10 pages 27-29: Charting Diversity - Overview - By exploring the amazing diversity of life on Earth, your students will discover how plants andanimals are adapted for survival. This activity provides a basis for understanding there are many different species and what is the value of biologicaldiversity.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) organize different species of plants and animals according to various characteristics and (2) determine how certaincharacteristics help species adapt to environmental conditions.PLT Skills: Research, Identify attributes and components, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 10 4.5.B (p.A-103)Demonstrate effective communicationsskills that reflect such demands asinterviewing, reporting, requesting,and providing information

4.14.C (p.A-18)Select or develop an appropriateproblem-solving strategy,including drawing a picture,looking for a pattern, systematicguessing and checking, acting itout, making a table, working asimpler problem, or workingbackwards to solve a problem

4.8.B (p.A-16)Compare adaptive characteristics ofvarious species




5.9.A (p.A-20)Compare the adaptivecharacteristics of species thatimprove their ability to survive andreproduce in an ecosystem


6 10 6.5.B (p.B-8)Demonstrate effective communicationsskills that reflect such demands asinterviewing, reporting, requesting,and providing information

6.11.C (p.B-4)Select or develop an appropriateproblem-solving strategy,including drawing a picture,looking for a pattern, systematicguessing and checking, acting itout, making a table, working asimpler problem, or workingbackwards to solve a problem

6.12.C (p.B-5)Identify components of anecosystem to which organism may respond

6.21.C (p.B-7)Organize and interpret informationfrom outlines, reports, databases,and visuals including graphs,charts, timelines, and maps

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7.13.C (p.B-8)Select or develop a problem-solving strategy, includingdrawing a picture, looking for apattern, systematic guessing andchecking, acting it out, making atable, working a simpler problem,or working backwards to solve aproblem

7.12.C (p.B-9)Describe how differentenvironments support differentvarieties of organisms


Lesson 10 pages 27-29: Charting Diversity - Overview - By exploring the amazing diversity of life on Earth, your students will discover how plants andanimals are adapted for survival. This activity provides a basis for understanding why there are so many different species and what is the value of biologicaldiversity.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) organize different species of plants and animals according to various characteristics and (2) determine how certaincharacteristics help species adapt to environmental conditions.PLT Skills: Research, Identify attributes and components, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




8.11.A (p.B-13)Identify that change inenvironmental conditions can affectthe survival of individuals ofspecies


17

Lesson 11 pages 30-34: Can It Be Real? - Overview - A beetle that drinks fog. A flower that smells like rotting meat. A fish that “shoots down” prey.Are these plants and animals for real? In this activity, your students will discover extraordinary plants and animals and will gain insight on how they areuniquely adapted to environmental conditions.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) study the characteristics of unusual plans and animals and (2) describe how plant and animal species are adaptedto a particular set of environmental conditions.PLT Skills: Analyze, Infer, Predict, Identify relationships and patterns

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



4.12 (p.A-17)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length, includingperimeter, time, temperature, andarea

4.8.B (p.A-16)Compare adaptive characteristicsof various species

4.23.C (p.A-28)Express ideas orally based onresearch and experiences


5.11.A (p.A-21)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length (includingperimeter), weight, capacity, time,temperature, and area




6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involving length(including perimeter andcircumference), area, time,temperature, capacity, and weight

6.12.B (p.B-5)Identify responses in organisms toexternal stimuli such as thepresence or absence of heat orlight

6.22.C (p.B-8)Express ideas orally based onresearch and experiences


7.9 (p.B-7)Estimate measurements and solveapplication problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference). area, and volume





8.11.A (p.B-13)Identify that change inenvironmental conditions canaffect the survival of individualsand of species


18

Lesson 12 pages 35-38: Tree Treasures - Overview - Students are often surprised to learn how many different products we get from trees. Use this activityto help your students learn just how much we depend on trees in our daily lives.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify and categorize products derived from trees, (2) find out which forest products are recyclable or reusable,and (3) recommend actions for conserving forest resources.PLT Skills: Identify attributes and components, Classify, Categorize, Research, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

12 K.3.C (p.A-7)Ask and answer relevant questions andmake contributions in small or largegroups


K.1.B (p.A-2)Learn how to conserve resourcesand materials

K.15.C (p.A-4)Sequence and categorizeinformation

1 12 1.3.C (p.A-26)Ask and answer relevant questions andmake contributions in small or largegroups

1.9.A ( p.A-6)Collect and sort data

1.1.B 9 (p.A-5)Learn how to use and conserveresources and materials




2.1.B (p.A-7)Learn how to use and conserveresources and materials




3.1.B (p.A-10)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources anddisposal or recycling of materials




4.1.B (p.A-14)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources and thedisposal or recycling of materials

4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

19




5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/ conclusions

Lesson 12 pages 35-38: Tree Treasures - Overview - Students are often surprised to learn how many different products we get from trees. Use this activityto help your students learn just how much we depend on trees in our daily lives.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify and categorize products derived from trees, (2) find out which forest products are recyclable or reusable,and (3) recommend actions for conserving forest resources.PLT Skills: Identify attributes and components, Classify, Categorize, Research, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




6.1.B (p.B-2)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources anddisposal or recycling of materials

6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

20

Lesson 13 pages 39-42: We All Need Trees - Overview - It is easy to see that items made of wood come from trees. However, many tree products are notobvious. In this activity your students will discover the diversity and multitude of products that are in some way derived from trees.PLT Objectives: Students will (2) examine various products and determine which ones are made from trees, (2) describe ways that trees are used tomake products and ways that these products can be conserved, and (3) explore methods for recycling and reusing products.PLT Skills: Analyze, Classify, Categorize, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 13 4.10.B (p.A-106)Establish and adjust purposes forreading such as reading to find out, tounderstand, to interpret, to enjoy, andto solve problems

4.14.D (p.A-18)Use tools such as real objects,manipulatives, and technology tosolve problems


4.21.B (p.A-27)Describe how scientificdiscoveries and technologicalinnovations have benefitedindividuals, businesses, andsociety in Texas

5 13 5.10.B (p.A-136)Establish and adjust purposes forreading such as reading to find out, tounderstand, to interpret, to enjoy, andto solve problems



5.24.D (p.A-35)Analyze environmental changesbrought about by scientificdiscoveries and technologicalinnovations such as airconditioning and fertilizers

6 13 6.10.B (p.B-12)Establish and adjust purposes forreading such as reading to find out, tounderstand, to interpret, to enjoy, andto solve problems

6.11.D (p.B-4)Select tools such as real objects,manipulatives, paper/pencil, andtechnology or techniques such asmental math, estimation, andnumber sense to solve problems


6.20.B (p.B-7)Explain how resources, beliefsystems, economic factors, andpolitical decisions have affectedthe use of technology from placeto place, culture to culture, andsociety to society

21

Lesson 14 pages 43-47: Renewable or Not? - Overview - Students often do not know which resources are renewable and which are nonrenewable, or whichare recyclable or reusable. In this activity students will learn what these terms mean and discover why sustainable use of natural resources is so important.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify renewable, nonrenewable, perpetual, reusable, and recyclable resources and explain the differencesamong them and (2) play a game that simulates society’s use of renewable and nonrenewable resources.PLT Skills: Discuss, Represent, Compose, Summarize, Interpret, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 14 4.9.E (p.A-106)Study word meanings systematicallysuch as across curricular content areasand through current events

4.2.C (p.A-15)Compare and order fractions usingconcrete and pictorial models


4.9.B (p.A-24)Identify reasons why people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in Texas, past andpresent, such as the use of naturalresources to meet basic needs

5 14 5.9.E. (p.A-135)Study word meanings systematicallysuch as across curricular content areasand through current events

5.2.B (p.A-19)Compare two fractional quantitiesin problem-solving situationsusing a variety of methods,including common denominators


5.9.C (p.A-32)Analyze the consequences ofhuman modification to theenvironment in the United States,past and present

6 14 6.9.E (p.B-11)Study word meanings systematicallysuch as across curricular content areasand through current events

6.2.A (p.B-2)Model addition and subtractionsituations involving fractionswith objects, pictures, words, andnumbers


6.9.A (p.B-4)Describe ways in which factors ofproduction (natural resources,labor, capital, and entrepreneurs)influence the economics ofselected contemporary societies


7.2.B (p.B-5)Use addition, subtraction,multiplication, and division tosolve problems involvingfractions and decimals


7.10.A (p.B-12)Identify ways in which Texanshave adapted to and modified theenvironment and analyze theconsequences of the modifications


8.2.A (p.B-10)Select and use appropriateoperations to solve problems andjustify the selections

8.1.B (p.B-11)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources and thedisposal or recycling of materials

8.12.A (p.B-21)Describe the consequences ofhuman modifications of thephysical environment of theUnited States

22

Lesson 15 pages 48-49: A Few of My Favorite Things - Overview - Here’s a way to give your students a better appreciation for how many naturalresources they depend on in their data-to-day lives. By tracing the resources that go into making one item, they will learn how the manufacturing of justone product can have an impact on the environment.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explain how the materials that make a product come from natural resources (2) identify natural resources asrenewable or nonrenewable, (3) identify the steps in making a product, and (4) describe the impact from obtaining and processing natural resourcesfor making products.PLT Skills : Discuss, Analyze, Elaborate, Generalize, Represent

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 15 4.25.A (p.A-118)Select, organize, or produce visuals tocomplement and extend meanings


4.2.E (p.A-14)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine, and evaluate information

4.9.A (p.A-23)Describe ways people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in Texas, past andpresent

5 15 5.25.A(p.A-147)Select, organize, or produce visuals tocomplement and extend meanings


5.11.C (p.A-21)Identify past events that led to theformation of the Earth’s renewable,non-renewable, and inexhaustibleresources

5.9.A (p.A-31)Describe ways people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in the United States,past and present

6 15 6.24.A (p.B-24)Select, organize, or produce visuals tocomplement and extend meanings


6.9.C (p.B-4)Research and describe energy typesfrom their source to their use anddetermine if the type is renewable,non-renewable, or inexhaustible

6.7.B (p.B-3)Identify and analyze ways peoplehave modified the physicalenvironment



7.14.C (p.B-10)Make inferences and drawconclusions about effects of humanactivity on the Earth’s renewable,non-renewable, and inexhaustibleresources

7.10 A (p.B-12)Identify ways in which Texanshave adapted to and modified theenvironment and analyze theconsequences of the modifications




8.12.B (p.B-22)Describe the consequences ofhuman modifications of thephysical environment of theUnited States

23

Lesson 16 pages 50-52: Pass The Plants, Please - Overview - Chocolate candy. Apple pie. French fries with catsup. Tortilla chips with guacamole dip.Thanks to plants, these and many other favorite foods are ours to enjoy. Try the following activities to get your students thinking about the part plants playin our diets.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify edible plan parts and give examples of each, (2) describe how plants are used to make various kinds offoods, and (3) discuss the importance of plants in people’s diets.PLT Skills: Discuss, Identify attributes and components, Organize information, Research, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

16 K.4.A (p.A-8)Learn the vocabulary of school suchas numbers, shapes, colors,direction, and categories

K.12.A (p.A-3)Construct graphs using real objectsor pictures in order to answerquestions

K.2.B (p.A-2)Plan and conduct simpledescriptive investigations


1 16 1.4.A (p.A-27)Learn the vocabulary of school suchas numbers, shapes, colors,direction, and categories

1.10.A (p.A-7)Draw conclusions and answerquestions using informationorganized in real-object graphs,picture graphs, and bar-type graphs



2 16 2.4.B (p.A-52)Clarify and support spokenmessages using appropriate propssuch as objects, pictures, or charts

2.11.A (p.A-10)Construct picture graphs and bar-type graphs

2.2.F (p.A-8)Communicate explanations aboutinvestigations

2.18.B (p.A-14)Create written and visual materialsuch as stories, poems, maps, andgraphic organizers to express ideas

3 16 3.4.B (p.A-77)Clarify and support spokenmessages using appropriate propssuch as objects, pictures, or charts

3.14.A (p.A-14)Collect, organize, record, anddisplay data in pictographs and bargraphs where each picture or cellmight represent more that one pieceof data

3.2.E (p.A-11)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine and evaluate information


4 16 4.23.B (p.A-117)Interpret important events and ideasgathered from maps, charts,graphics, video segments, ortechnology presentations

4.14.C (p.A-17)Interpret bar graphs

4.2.E (p.A-14)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine, and evaluateinformation


5 16 5.23.B (p. A-146)Interpret important events and ideasgathered from maps, charts,graphics, video segments, ortechnology presentations

5.13.C (p.A-21)Graph a given set of data using anappropriate graphical representationsuch as a picture or line



24

Lesson 16 pages 50-52: Pass The Plants, Please - Overview - Chocolate candy. Apple pie. French fries with catsup. Tortilla chips with guacamole dip.Thanks to plants, these and many other favorite foods are ours to enjoy. Try the following activities to get your students thinking about the part plants playin our diets.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify edible plan parts and give examples of each, (2) describe how plants are used to make various kinds offoods, and (3) discuss the importance of plants in people’s diets.PLT Skills: Discuss, Identify attributes and components, Organize information, Research, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 16 6.22.B (p.B-23)Interpret important events and ideasgathered from maps, charts, graphics,video segments, or technologypresentations

6.10.A (p.B-3)Draw and compare differentgraphical representations of thesame data




7.11.A (p.B-8)Select and use an appropriaterepresentation for presentingcollected data and justify theselection

7.2.E (p.B-6)Construct graphs, tables, maps,and charts to organize, examine,and evaluate information



8.12.C (p.B-12)Construct circle graphs, bargraphs, and histograms, with orwithout technology

8.2.E (p.B-11)Construct graphs, tables, maps,and charts using tools includingcomputers to organize, examine,and evaluate


25

Lesson 17 pages 54-55; People Of The Forest - Overview - To the Mbuti Pygmies of Africa, the Yanomami and the Kuna of Latin America, and otherpeople around the world, the forest is home. More than just a place to live, the forest provides for all of their needs. By comparing and contrastingdifferent forest people, both past and present, your students can learn about some of the ways people have depended on forests throughout history.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the lifestyles of several forest-dwelling people of the present or past and ways that they depend upon theforest, (2) describe some of the effects forest people have on their environment, and (3) write a story focusing on a day in the life of a member ofone group of forest people.PLT Skills: Compare and Contrast, Research, Organize information, Represent

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



5.14.A (p.A-22)Identify the mathematics ineveryday situations

5.10.B (p.A-20)Give examples of learnedcharacteristics that result from theinfluence of the environment

5.26.B (p.A-36)Incorporate main and supportingideas in verbal and writtencommunication



6.12.C (p.B-5)Identify components of aecosystem to which organism mayrespond

6.15.B (p.B-5)Describe some traits that definecultures



7.10.B (p.B-9)Compare traits of organisms ofdifferent species that enhance theirsurvival and reproduction




8.11.B (p.B-13)Distinguish between inherited traitsand other characteristics that resultfrom interactions with theenvironment


26

Lesson 18 pages 56-57: Tale Of The Sun - Overview - Every culture in the world has stories that are part of its history and tradition. These stories revealthe beliefs of the people who tell them. For example, many stories teach lessons in proper attitude and behavior. In this activity, your student can analyze astory told by the Muskogg (Creek) Indians of present-day Oklahoma. Later, students can read and discuss stories told in other cultures form around theworld.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe how stories reveal the beliefs of the people who tell them and (2) read or listen to an American Indianstory to gain insight on the vital importance of the sun.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Discuss, Observe, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

18 K.13.B (p.A-13)Compare experiences of charactersacross cultures

K.15.B (p.A-4)Reason and support his or herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology

K.9.B (p.A-3)Give examples of how livingorganisms depend on each other

K.12.A (p.A-3)Identify family customs andtraditions and explain theirimportance

1 18 1.2.B (p.A-26)Compare language and oral traditions(family stories) that reflect customs,regions, and cultures


1.9.B (p.A-6)Compare and give examples of theways living organisms depend oneach other for their basic needs

1.15.A (p.A-8)Describe various beliefs, customs,and traditions of families andexplain their importance



2.9.B (p.A-9)Compare and give examples of theways living organisms depend oneach other and on theirenvironments

2.15.A (p.A-13)Identify selected stories, poems,status, paintings, and otherexamples of local cultural heritage


3.17.B (p.A-14)Justify why an answer isreasonable and explain thesolution process

3.11.D (p.A-13)Describe the characteristics of theSun

3.14.A (p.A-19)Identify selected individual writersand artists and their stories,poems, statues, paintings, andother examples of culturalheritage from communities aroundthe world

4 18 4.4.B (p.A-103)Compare oral traditions across regionsand cultures


4.11.C (p.A-16)Identify the Sun as a major sourceof energy for the Earth andunderstand its role in the growth ofplants, in the creation of winds,and in the water cycle


5 18 5.4.B (p.A-132)Compare oral traditions across regionsand cultures


5.12.D (p.A-21)Identify gravity as the force thatkeeps planets in orbit around theSun and the moon in orbit aroundthe Earth


27

Lesson 18 pages 56-57: Tale Of The Sun - Overview - Every culture in the world has stories that are part of its history and tradition. These stories revealthe beliefs of the people who tell them. For example, many stories teach lessons in proper attitude and behavior. In this activity, your student can analyze astory told by the Muskogg (Creek) Indians of present-day Oklahoma. Later, students can read and discuss stories told in other cultures form around theworld.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe how stories reveal the beliefs of the people who tell them and (2) read or listen to an American Indianstory to gain insight on the vital importance of the sun.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Discuss, Observe, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 18 6.4.B (p.B-7)Compare oral traditions across regionsand cultures


6.13.A (p.B-5)Identify characteristics of objects inour solar system including theSun, planets, meteorites, comets,asteroids, and moons

6.22.B (p.B-8)Incorporate main and supportingideas in verbal and writtencommunication

28

Lesson 19 pages 58-60: Values On The Line - Overview - Many people never take the time to explore the underlying assumptions they have concerningthe environment. They often form an opinion without understanding all the sides of an issue. This activity is designed to get students thinking about theirfeelings and expressing their views. You may also wish to use this activity on a regular basis to give students a chance to evaluate their opinions as they learnmore about environmental issues.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) examine statements regarding environmental issues and determine the degree to which they agree with them, (2)share their views and opinions with others and gain awareness of the range of values related to environmental issues, and (3) identify the need forbalanced information when forming opinions.PLT Skills: Evaluate, Establish criteria, Discuss, Principle-forming

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 19 6.2.E (p.B-7)Compare his/her own perception of aspoken message with the perceptionof others

6.4.A (p.B-2)Use tables and symbols torepresent and describe proportionaland other relationships involvingconversions, sequences, perimeter,area, etc.

6.3.A (p.B-2)Analyze, review, and critiquescientific explanations, includinghypotheses and theories, as to theirstrengths and weaknesses usingscientific evidence and information

6.21.D (p.B-7)Identify different points of viewabout an issue or topic


7.4.C (p.B-6)Describe the relationship betweenthe terms in a sequence and theirpositions in the sequence


7.21.E (p.B-16)Support a point of view on asocial studies issue or event


8.4 (p.B-10)Generate a different representationgiven one representation of datasuch as a table, graph, equation, orverbal description



29

Lesson 20 pages 61-62: Environmental Exchange Box - Overview - Preparing an environmental exchange box will give your students a chance to learnmore about their own region and the things that are special about it. Then, when they receive an exchange box from another region, they can compareenvironments, people, and much more.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) discover some of the resources, products, and other characteristics of their region and ways that people in theirregion are trying to improve the environment and (2) describe similarities and differences between their region and another region with respect tothese characteristics.PLT Skills: Observe, Formulate questions, Represent, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

20 K.16.B (p.A-15)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connections amongideas

K.13.A (p.A-3)Identify mathematics in everydaysituations

K.2.C (p.A-2)Gather information using simpleequipment and tools to extend thesenses

K.5.B (p.A-2)Identify the human characteristicsof places such as types of housesand ways of earning a living

1 20 1.23.B (p.A-40)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connections amongideas


1.2.C (p.A-5)Gather information using simpleequipment and tools to extend thesenses

1.6.C (p.A-6)Identify and describe the humancharacteristics of places such astypes of houses and ways ofearning a living



2.2.D (p.A-8)Gather information using simpleequipment and tools to extend thesenses

2.15.B (p.A-13)Explain the significance ofselected stories, poems, statues,paintings, and other examples ofthe local cultural heritage



3.2.B (p.A-11)Collect information by observingand measuring

3.4.D (p.A-16)Identify and compare the humancharacteristics of selected regions





30





Lesson 20 pages 61-62: Environmental Exchange Box - Overview - Preparing an environmental exchange box will give your students a chance to learnmore about their own region and the things that are special about it. Then, when they receive an exchange box from another region, they can compareenvironments, people, and much more.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) discover some of the resources, products, and other characteristics of their region and ways that people in theirregion are trying to improve the environment and (2) describe similarities and differences between their region and another region with respect tothese characteristics.PLT Skills: Observe, Formulate questions, Represent, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



6.11.B (p.B-4)Identify and apply mathematics toeveryday experiences, to activitiesin and outside of school, withother disciplines, and with othermathematical topics











31

Theme: Interrelationships

Lesson 21 pages 65-69: Adopt A Tree - Overview: This activity will encourage students’ awareness of individual trees over time, as well as incorporatevarious other subjects. By adopting individual trees, students will gain greater awareness and appreciation of their local environment.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe a chosen tree using personal observation and investigation, and organize information about the tree, (2)identify relationships between their tree and other organisms, and (3) put together a book or portfolio about their tree.PLT Skills: Observe, Form concepts, Reason, Organize information

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

21 K.12.A (p.A-13)Identify relevant questions for inquirysuch as “Why did knights weararmor?”

K.10.A (p.A-3)Compare and order two or threeconcrete objects according tolength (shorter or longer),capacity (holds more or holdsless), or weight (lighter orheavier)

K.2.B (p.A-2)Plan and conduct simple descriptiveinvestigations

K.15.B P.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, print materials, andartifacts

1 21 1.15.A (p.A-36)Identify relevant questions for inquirysuch as “What do pill bugs eat?”

1.7.B (p.A-6)Describe the relationship betweenthe size of the unit and thenumber of units needed inmeasurement

1.2.B (p.A-5)Plan and conduct simpleinvestigations

1.17.B (p.A-9)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, literature, and artifacts

2 21 2.12.G (p.A-59)Demonstrate learning throughproductions and displays such asmurals, written and oral reports, anddramatizations

2.9.B (p.A-10)Measure length, capacity, andweight using concrete modelsthat approximate standard units

2.2.B (p.A-7)Plan and conduct simpleinvestigations

2.17.B (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,televisions, maps, computersoftware, literature, referencesources, and artifacts


3.11.A (p.A-13)Estimate and measure lengthsusing standard units such as inch,foot, yard, centimeter, decimeter,and meter



4 21 4.13.E (p.A-110)Summarize and organize informationfrom multiple sources by takingnotes, outlining ideas, or makingcharts



4.23.D (.A-28)Create written and visual materialsuch as journal entries, reports,graphic organizers, outlines, andbibliographies

32

Lesson 21 pages 65-69: Adopt A Tree - Overview: This activity will encourage students’ awareness of individual trees over time, as well as incorporatevarious other subjects. By adopting individual trees, students will gain greater awareness and appreciation of their local environment.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe a chosen tree using personal observation and investigation, and organize information about the tree, (2)identify relationships between their tree and other organisms, and (3) put together a book or portfolio about their tree.PLT Skills: Observe, Form concepts, Reason, Organize information

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



5.11.A (p.A-21)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length (includingperimeter), weight, capacity,time temperature, and area

5.2.B (p.-18)Collect information by observingand measuring


6 21 6.13.E (p.B-16)Summarize and organize informationfrom multiple sources by takingnotes, outlining ideas, or makingcharts

6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference), area, time,temperature, capacity, and weight




7.9 (p.B-7)Estimate measurements and solveapplication problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference), area, and volume


7.22.B (p.B-16)Use standard grammar, spelling,sentence structure, and punctuation


8.9.B (p.B-11)Use proportional relationships insimilar shapes to find missingmeasurements


8.31.B (p.B-27)Use standard grammar, spelling,sentence structure, and punctuation

33

Lesson 22 pages 70-71: Trees As Habitats - Overview: From their leafy branches to their tangled roots, trees provide a habitat for a host of plants andanimals. In this activity, your students will discover how plants and animals depend on trees in many ways.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) take inventory of the plants and animals that live on, in, and around trees; (2) identify ways those animals andplants depend on trees for survival and, in turn, influence the trees; and (3) for Variation 2; investigate how buildings provide a habitat for plants,animals, and people.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Infer, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

22 K.4.C (p.A-8)Clarify and support spoken messagesusing appropriate props such asobjects, pictures, or charts




1 22 1.4.C (p.A-27)Clarify and support spoken messagesusing appropriate props such asobjects, pictures, or charts

1.9.B (p.A-6)Use organized data to construct realobject graphs, picture graphs, andbar-type graphs



2 22 2.4.B (p.A-52)Clarify and support spoken messagesusing appropriate props such asobjects, pictures, or charts


2.9.B (p.A-9)Compare and give examples of theways living organism depend oneach other and on theirenvironment


3 22 3.4.B (p.A-77)Clarify and support spoken messagesusing appropriate props such asobjects, pictures, or charts




4 22 4.25.A (p.A-118)Select, organize, or produce visual tocomplement and extend meanings


4.5. A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemssuch as plants in a school yard, andparts in nonliving systems such asa light bulb in a circuit


5 22 5.25.A (p.A-147)Select, organize, or produce visual tocomplement and extend meanings


5.9.C (p.A-20)Predict some adaptivecharacteristics required for survivaland reproduction by an organism inan ecosystem


34

6 22 6.13.I (p.B-16)Present organized statements, reports,and speeches using visuals or mediato support meaning, as appropriate




35

Lesson 22 pages 70-71: Trees As Habitats - Overview: From their leafy branches to their tangled roots, trees provide a habitat for a host of plants andanimals. In this activity, your students will discover how plants and animals depend on trees in many ways.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) take inventory of the plants and animals that live on, in, and around trees; (2) identify ways those animals andplants depend on trees for survival and, in turn, influence the trees; and (3) for Variation 2; investigate how buildings provide a habitat for plants,animals, and people.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Infer, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


7 22 7.13.I (p.B-44)Present organized statements, reports,and speeches using visuals or mediato support meaning

7.11.A (p.B-8)Select and use appropriaterepresentation for presentingcollected data and justify theselection



8 22 8.13.I (p.B-66)Present organized statements, reports,and speeches using visuals or mediato support meaning, as appropriate

8.12.C (p.B-12)Construct circle graphs, bar graphs,and histograms, with and withouttechnology

8.6.C (p.B-12)Describe interactions withinecosystems


36

Lesson 23 pages 72-74: The Fallen Log - Overview: It’ amazing how many things live in and on rotting logs. In this activity, your students will becomefamiliar with some of those organisms. They’ll gain an understanding of how decomposition takes place. And they’ll gain a better appreciation formicrohabitats and communities.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify some of the organisms that live in, on, and under fallen logs and explain how those organisms depend onthe dead wood for survival, and (2) describe the process of decomposition.PLT Skills: Observe, Represent, Organize information, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson












6.8.B (p.B-4)Explain and illustrate theinteractions between matter andenergy in the water cycle and in thedecay of biomass such as in acompost bin



7.11.B (p.B-8)Make inferences and convincingarguments based on an analysis ofgiven or collected data

7.2.C (p.B-6)Organize, analyze, make inferences,and predict trends from direct andindirect evidence

7.21.B (p.B-15)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparingcontrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/conclusions


8.13.A (p.B-12)Evaluate methods of sampling todetermine validity of an inferencemade from a set of data


8.30.B (p.B-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparingcontrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/conclusions

37

Lesson 24 pages 75-76: Nature’s Recyclers - Overview: It’s amazing how many organisms live off dead organic material and recycle those materials backinto life. In this activity, your students will investigate the habits of one of these creatures. They will gain an understanding of how decomposition worksand an appreciation for some of nature’s less-heralded creatures.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) understand and describe the process of decomposition, (2) explain the function of scavengers and decomposers,and (3) experiment with sowbugs to determine what they eat and what their role is in the ecosystem.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Identify relationships and patterns, Analyze, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 24 1.23.B (p.A-40)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connectionsamong ideas


1.2.E (p.A-5)Communicate explanations aboutinvestigations

1.18.A (p.A-9)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experiences


2.14 (p.A-11)Reason and support observationsusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology





3.2.D (p.A-11)Communicate valid conclusions






5 24 5.15.C (p.A141)Write to inform such as to explain,describe, report, and narrate





6.8.D (p.B-3)Convert measures within the samemeasurement system (customaryand metric) based on relationshipsbetween units

6.2.D (p.B-2)Communicate valid conclusions


38

Lesson 25 pages 77-78: Birds and Worms - Overview: Camouflage is an important survival strategy in the animal kingdom. In this activity, students willdiscover the value of protective coloration as they pretend to be birds in search of colored worms or bugs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) simulate how predators use their vision to find prey, (2) describe some different ways animals use camouflage forsurvival, and (3) invent a fictional animal that is camouflaged for its particular environment.PLT Skills: Determine Causes and Effects, Analyze, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

25 K.16.B (p.A-15)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connectionsamong ideas

K.5 (p.A-2)Identify, extend, and create patternsof sounds, physical movement, andconcrete objects




1.4.A (p.A-5)Identify, describe, and extendpictorial patterns in order to makepredictions and solve problems

1.6.A (p.A-5)Sort objects and events based onproperties and patterns


2 25 2.20.B (p.A-63)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists, andshowing connections among ideas

2.6.B (p.A-9)Identify patterns in a list of relatednumber pairs based on a real-lifesituation and extend the list




3.7.B (p.A-13)Identify patterns in a table ofrelated number pairs based on areal-life situation and extend thetable

3.9.A (p.A-12)Observe and identify characteristicsamong species that allow each tosurvive and reproduce


4 25 4.113.D (p.A-110)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, graphs,timelines, tables, and diagrams toaddress research questions

4.7 (p.A-16)Describe the relationship betweentwo sets of related data such asordered pairs in a table



39

Lesson 25 pages 77-78: Birds and Worms - Overview: Camouflage is an important survival strategy in the animal kingdom. In this activity, students willdiscover the value of protective coloration as they pretend to be birds in search of colored worms or bugs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) simulate how predators use their vision to find prey, (2) describe some different ways animals use camouflage forsurvival, and (3) invent a fictional animal that is camouflaged for its particular environment.PLT Skills: Determine Causes and Effects, Analyze, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



5.6 (p. A-20)Select from and use diagrams andnumber sentences to represent real-life situations

5.9.B (p.A-20)Analyze and describe adaptivecharacteristics that result in anorganism’s unique niche in andecosystem


6 25 6.13.D (p.B-16)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, graphs,timelines, tables, and diagrams toaddress research questions

6.9.B (p.B-3)Find the probabilities of a simpleevent and its complement anddescribe the relationship betweenthe two



40

Lesson 26 pages 79-82: Dynamic Duos - Overview: Organisms in an ecosystem depend on each other for food. But they may also depend on each otherfor protection, transportation, or shelter. A close, long-term relationship between two organisms is called symbiosis (sihm-bee-OH-sihs). In this activity,students will learn about several kinds of symbiosis.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) examine close relationships that exist between different organisms and (2) explain how partners in theserelationships help each other to survive.PLT Skills: Analyze, Reason

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 26 5.10.A (p.A-136)Use his/her own knowledge andexperience to comprehend

5.16.B (p.A-22)Justify why an answer isreasonable and explain the solutionprocess


5.25.D (p.A-36)Identify different points of viewabout an issue or topic

6 26 6.10.A (p.B-12)Use his/her own knowledge andexperience to comprehend

6.11.A (p.B-4)Identify and apply mathematics toeveryday experiences, to activitiesin and outside of school, with otherdisciplines, and with othermathematical topics

6.12.C (p..B-5)Identify components of anecosystem to which organismsmay respond








8.11.A (p.B-13)Identify that change inenvironmental conditions can affectthe survival of individuals and ofspecies

8.30.B (p.B-27) Analyzeinformation by sequencing,categorizing, identifying cause-and-effect relationships,comparing, contrasting, findingthe main idea, summarizing,making generalizations andpredictions, and drawinginferences and conclusions

41

Lesson 27 pages 83-84: Every Tree For Itself - Overview: Try this activity to give your students an idea of the conditions that trees need to live and grow,and to help your students understand that trees must often compete for their needs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) simulate how trees compete for their essential needs, and (2) describe how varying amounts of light, water, andnutrients affect a tree’s growth.PLT Skills: Determine Causes and Effects, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

27 K.12.C (p.A-13)Draw conclusions from informationgathered

K.9.C (p.A-3)Describe, identify, and comparecircles, triangles, and rectanglesincluding squares

K.9.A (p.A-3)Identify basic needs of livingorganisms

K.16.A (p.A-4)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experiences


1.7.A (p.A-6)Estimate and measure length,capacity, and weight of objectsusing nonstandard units



2 27 2.12.H (p.A-59)Draw conclusions from informationgathered

2.9.B (p.A-10)Measure length, capacity, andweight using concrete models thatapproximate standard units

2.9.A (p.A-9)Identify the external characteristicsof different kinds of plants andanimals that allow their needs to bemet

2.7.B (p.A-12)Explain how people depend on thephysical environment and itsnatural resources to satisfy theirbasic needs

3 27 3.12.J (p.A-85)Draw conclusions from informationgathered



3.7.A (p.A-17)Define and identify examples ofscarcity

4 27 4.13.G (p.A-110)Draw conclusions from informationgathered from multiple sources


4.11.C (p.A-16)Identify the Sun as a major sourceof energy for the Earth andunderstand its role in growth ofplants, in the creation of winds,and in the water cycle.


42

Lesson 27 pages 83-84: Every Tree For Itself - Overview: Try this activity to give your students an idea of the conditions that trees need to live and grow,and to help your students understand that trees must often compete for their needs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) simulate how trees compete for their essential needs, and (2) describe how varying amounts of light, water, andnutrients affect a tree’s growth.PLT Skills: Determine Causes and Effects, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




5.9.C (p.A-20)Predict some adaptivecharacteristics required for survivaland reproduction by an organism inan ecosystem

5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/conclusions

6 27 6.13.G (p.B-16)Draw conclusions from informationgathered from multiple sources



6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, anddrawing inferences/conclusions



7.9.B (p. B-8)Describe how organisms maintainstable internal conditions whileliving in changing externalenvironments


43


8.9.B (p.B-11)Use proportional relationships insimilar shapes to find missingmeasurements



44

Lesson 28 pages 85-87: Air Plants - Overview: Plants play a part in every breath we take. Use this activity to help your students understand howphotosynthesis works and how humans depend on this process.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) demonstrate and describe the general process of photosynthesis and (2) explore the relationship between theamount of oxygen produced by plants and the amount of oxygen used by humans.PLT Skills: Represent, Analyze, Predict, Verify

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 28 3.20.B (p.A-89)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in a variety of ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists, andshowing connections among ideas

3.11.B (p.A-13)Use linear measure to findperimeter of a shape

3.8.B (p.A-12)Observe and identify organismswith similar needs that competewith one another for resources suchas oxygen, water, food or space

3.16.E (p.A-19)Interpret and create visualsincluding graphs, charts, tables,timelines, illustrations, and maps

4 28 4.25.A (p.A-118)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement, and extend meaning




5 28 5.25.A (p.A-147)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement, and extend meaning




6 28 6.24.A (p.B-24)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement, and extend meaning



6.11.A (p.A-21)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length (includingperimeter), weight, capacity,time, temperature, and area

45

Lesson 29 pages 88-92: Rain Reasons - Overview: Rainfall, sunlight, and temperature are important factors influencing where plants can grow and, in turn,where animals can live. In this activity, students will design experiments to see how these climatic factors influence the growth and lives of plants. They willuse the learned principles to explore how varying climate conditions have resulted in an astounding variety of forests types in Puerto Rico.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explore how variations in water, light and temperature affect plant growth and (2) describe how precipitation andgeography can affect the plant and animal species that are found in a particular region.PLT Skills: Solve problems, Observe, Determine Causes and Effects Predict, Verify

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 29 6.5.B (p.B-8)Demonstrate effectivecommunication skills that reflectsuch demands as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation


6.12.B (p.B-5)Identify responses in organisms toexternal stimuli such as thepresence or absence of heat or light

6.3.C (p.B-2)Compare selected world regionsand countries using data frommaps, graphs, charts, databases,and models



7.9.B (p.B-8)Describe how organisms maintainstable internal conditions whileliving in changing externalenvironments






46

Lesson 30 pages 93-94: Three Cheers For Trees - Overview: It’s easy to take for granted trees and the many benefits they provide. Here’s a way to startyour students thinking about how much trees add to people’s lives.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the ways trees benefit people and (2) make pictures/models depicting how trees are used to improve thehuman-made environment.PLT Skills: Discuss, Evaluate, Compare and Contrast, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 30 1.23.B (p.A-40)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, showing connections amongideas

1.11.B (p.A-7)Use a problem-solving model, thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness


1.4.B (p.A-6)Describe the location of self andobjects relative to other locationsin the classroom and school

2 30 2.20.B (p.A-63) Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists,showing connections among ideas


2.1.B (p.A-7)Learn how to use and conserveresources and dispose of materials

2.8.B (p.A-12)Identify ways in which peoplehave modified the physicalenvironment such as buildingroads, clearing land for urbandevelopment, and mining coal

3 30 3.20.B (p.A-89)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists,showing connections among ideas



3.4.C (p.A-16)Describe the effects of physicaland human processes in shapingthe landscape

4 30 4.25.A (p.A-118)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement and extend meanings








47

6 30 6.24.A (p.B-24)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement and extend meanings




48

Lesson 31 pages 95-97: Plant A Tree - Overview: Never underestimate the power of a tree! Besides giving us an amazing array of paper and woodproducts, trees provide a host of other benefits__from shading our backyards to assisting in the maintenance of the global climate. Students can expresstheir appreciation of trees by planning and carrying out their tree-planting program.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways that urban trees enrich our lives, (2) determine how people care for urban trees, (3) identify areas inthe community that would benefit from having more trees, and (4) organize and execute a class tree-planting project in a local area.PLT Skills: Research, Define problems, Formulate questions, Make decisions, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 31 1.18.F (p.A-38)Write in different forms for differentpurposes such as lists to record,letters to invite or thank, and storiesor poems to entertain

1.11.B (p.A-7)Use a problem-solving model, withguidance as needed, thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness

1.3.A (p.A-5)Make decisions using information

1.19.A (p.A-9)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list and consideroptions, consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose andimplement a solution, andevaluate the effectiveness of thesolution

2 31 2.14.D (p.A-60)Write in different forms for differentpurposes such as lists to record,letters to invite or thank, and storiesor poems to entertain


2.3.A (p.A-8)Make decisions using information


3 31 3.14.D (p.A-85)Write in different forms for differentpurposes such as lists to record,letters to invite or thank, and storiesor poems to entertain




49

4 31 4.15.B (p.A-111)Write to influence such as topersuade, argue, and request

4.4.D (p.A-16)Use multiplication to solveproblems involving two-digitnumbers


4.24.A (p.A-28)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list/consider options,consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose/implementa solution, and evaluate theeffectiveness of the solution

50

Lesson 31 pages 95-97: Plant A Tree - Overview: Never underestimate the power of a tree! Besides giving us an amazing array of paper and woodproducts, trees provide a host of other benefits__from shading our backyards to assisting in the maintenance of the global climate. Students can expresstheir appreciation of trees by planning and carrying out their tree-planting program.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways that urban trees enrich our lives, (2) determine how people care for urban trees, (3) identify areas inthe community that would benefit from having more trees, and (4) organize and execute a class tree-planting project in a local area.PLT Skills: Research, Define problems, Formulate questions, Make decisions, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 31 5.15.B (P.A-141)Write to influence such as topersuade, argue, and request

5.3.B (p.A-19)Use multiplication to solveproblems involving wholenumbers (no more than three digitstimes two digits withouttechnology)



6 31 6.15.B (p.B-17)Write to influence such as topersuade, argue, and request

6.2.C (p.B-2)Use multiplication and division ofwhole numbers to solve problemsincluding situations involvingequivalent ratios and rates


6.23.A (p.B-8)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list and consideroptions, consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose andimplement a solution, andevaluate the effectiveness of thesolution


7.2.C (p.B-6)Use models to add, subtract,multiply, and divide integers andconnect the actions to algorithms

7.2.C (p.B-6)Organize, analyze, evaluate, makeinferences, and predict trends fromdirect and indirect evidence


51




8.23.A (p.B-28)Use a problem-solving process toidentify a problem, gatherinformation, list/consider options,consider advantages anddisadvantages, choose/implementa solution, and evaluate theeffectiveness of the solution

52

Lesson 32 pages 98-100: A Forest OF Many Uses - Overview: Privately and publicly owned forests are often managed to some degree to provide severaldifferent resources. In this activity, students will learn how forests are managed to meet a variety of human and environmental needs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways that people use forest resources, (2) explain that forests are managed to satisfy a variety of humanneeds, and (3) explore how different forest uses can be balanced with each other.PLT Skills: Classify, Categorize, Analyze, Discuss, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 32 1.15.B (p.A-36)Use pictures, print, and people togather information and answerquestions

1.9.A (p.A-6)Collect and sort data

1.5.A (p.A-5)Sort objects and events based onproperties and patterns

1.6.B (p.A-6)Identify examples of and uses fornatural resources in thecommunity, state, and nation



2.5.A (P.A-8)Classify and sequence organisms,objects, and events based onproperties and patterns


3 32 3.12.H (p.A-84)Demonstrate learning throughproductions and displays such asmurals, written and oral reports, anddramatizations



3.4.B (p.A-16)Compare how people in differentcommunities adapt to or modifythe physical environment








5.9.B (p.A-32)Identify reasons why people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in the United States,past and present, such as the useof human resources to meet basicneeds



6.2.E (p.B-2)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine, and evaluate data

6.6.C (p.B-3)Analyze the effects of physicalprocesses and the physicalenvironment on humans

53

Lesson 32 pages 98-100: A Forest OF Many Uses - Overview: Privately and publicly owned forests are often managed to some degree to provide severaldifferent resources. In this activity, students will learn how forests are managed to meet a variety of human and environmental needs.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways that people use forest resources, (2) explain that forests are managed to satisfy a variety of humanneeds, and (3) explore how different forest uses can be balanced with each other.PLT Skills: Classify, Categorize, Analyze, Discuss, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



7.11.A (p.B-8)Select and use appropriaterepresentation for presentingcollected data and justify theselection






8.12.B (p.B-22)Describe the consequences ofhuman modification on thephysical environment of theUnited States

54

Lesson 33 pages 101-104: Forest Consequences - Overview: Few issues, if any, have simple solutions__and resolving them usually involves compromise.In this activity, your students will learn about some of the effects that human activities can have on a forest. They will explore some of the trade-offsinvolved in working out a land-use issue.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) evaluate the options for managing or using a piece of forested land and (2) make a land-use decision and explorethe consequences of that decision.PLT Skills: Analyze, Discuss, Define problems, Make decisions, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson





6.23.B (p.B-8)Use a decision-making process toidentify a situation that requires adecision, gather information,identify options, predictconsequences, and take action toimplement a decision









55

Lesson 34 pages 105-107: Who Works In This Forest? - Overview: All kinds of people work in the forest__from foresters to loggers, from scientists tonaturalists. Everyone depends on properly managed forests for recreation, essential products, and a healthy environment. This activity provides studentswith an overview of forest-related careers.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explore a variety of jobs that are directly related to forest resources and (2) describe how various professionalswork together to care for forests.PLT Skills: Identify attributes and components, Represent, Formulate questions, Discuss

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 34 3.12.A (p.A-84)Identify relevant questions for inquirysuch as “What Native Americantribes inhabit(ed) Texas?”


3.3.D (p.A-11)Evaluate the impact of research onscientific thought, society, and theenvironment

3.6.A (p.A-17)Identify ways of earning,spending, and saving money

4 34 4.13.A (p.A-110)Form and revise questions forinvestigations including questionsarising from interests and unit ofstudy



4.13.A (p.A-24)Explain how people in differentregions of Texas earn their living,past and present

5 34 5.13.A (p.A-139)Form and revise questions forinvestigations including questionsarising from interests and unit ofstudy



5.14.A (p.A-32)Analyze how people in differentparts of the United States earn aliving, past and present

6 34 6.13.A (p.B-15)Form and revise questions forinvestigations including questionsarising from interests and unit ofstudy


6.3.D (p.B-2)Evaluate the impact of research onscientific thought, society, and theenvironment

6.8.A (p.B-3)Compare ways in which varioussocieties organize the productionand distribution of goods andservices

56

Lesson 35 pages108-113: Loving It Too Much - Overview: National parks are the treasures of any nation. You national parks today struggle with seriousdilemmas. By looking a problems in America’s national parks, students can begin grappling with some tough environmental issues that affect parks locallyand globally.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explain how increased numbers of park visitors and activities outside park boundaries affect ecosystems withinnational and local parks and (2) offer possible solutions to problems facing national and local parks.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Analyze, Represent, Interpret, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 35 6.13.D (p.B-16)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, graphs,timelines, or tables to addressresearch questions






7.14.C (p.B-10)Make inferences and drawconclusions about effects of humanactivity on Earth’s renewable, non-renewable, and inexhaustibleresources



8.12.A (p.B-12)Select the appropriate measure ofcentral tendency to describe a set ofdata for a particular purpose

8.14.C (p.B-14)Describe how human activitieshave modified soil, water, and airquality

8.12.B (p.B-22)Describe the consequences ofhuman modification of thephysical environment of theUnited States

57

Lesson 36 pages 114-118: Pollution Search - Overview: Here’s a way for your students to take a closer look at pollution: what it is, what its sources are,and what are some things people can do to reduce it.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify forms of pollution and describe the effects that various pollutants can have on people, wildlife, and plantsand (2) describe relationships between various forms of pollution and human actions.PLT Skills: Observe, Compare and Contrast, Organize information, Solve Problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

36 K.9.B (p.A-11)Establish purposes for reading orlistening such as to be informed, tofollow directions, and to beentertained


K.1.B (p.A-2)Learn how to use and conserveresources and materials


1 36 1.12.B (p.A-33)Establish purposes for reading orlistening such as to be informed, tofollow directions, and to beentertained







2.8.C (p.A-12)Identify consequences of humanmodification of the physicalenvironment such as the use ofirrigation to improve crop yields



3.8.C (p.A-12)Describe environmental changes inwhich some organisms wouldthrive, become ill, or perish

3.4.C (p.A-16)Describe the effects of physicaland human processes in shapingthe landscape




4.9.C (p.A-24)Analyze the consequences ofhuman modification of theenvironment in Texas, past andpresent




5.9.C (p.A-32)Analyze the consequences ofhuman modification of theenvironment in the United States,past and present




6.6.C (p.B-3)Analyze the effects of physicalprocesses and the physicalenvironment on humans

58

Lesson 37 pages 119-121: Talking Trash, Not! - Overview: By taking a look at their own trash, your students can learn a lot about how and why they throwthings away. They can find ways to cut down on the waste they produce and to improve the way waste is managed in their community.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) analyze the solid waste that they generate over a period of time, (2) describe what happens to various types ofwaste when it’s discarded, and (3) develop and implement a plan for reducing the amount of waste they generate.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify, Categorize, Research, Analyze, Predict, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 37 1.12.C (p.A-33)Retell or act out the order ofimportant events in stories











3.16.E (p. A-19)Interpret and create visualsincluding graphs, charts, tables,timelines, illustrations, and maps

4 37 4.10.E (p.A-107)Use the text’s structure orprogression of ideas such as causeand effect or chronology to locate andrecall information




5 37 5.10.E (p.A-136)Use the text’s structure orprogression of ideas such as causeand effect or chronology to locate andrecall information




59

Lesson 37 pages 119-121: Talking Trash, Not! - Overview: By taking a look at their own trash, your students can learn a lot about how and why they throwthings away. They can find ways to cut down on the waste they produce and to improve the way waste is managed in their community.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) analyze the solid waste that they generate over a period of time, (2) describe what happens to various types ofwaste when it’s discarded, and (3) develop and implement a plan for reducing the amount of waste they generate.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify, Categorize, Research, Analyze, Predict, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 37 6.10.E (p.B-12)Use the text’s structure orprogression of ideas such as causeand effect or chronology to locate andrecall information




60

Lesson 38 pages 122-125: Every Drop Counts - Overview: It’s easy to waste water and even easier to take water for granted. Water pours out of ourfaucets as though it were endlessly available. But the truth is that fresh water supplies are dwindling. Fortunately, it’s just as easy to conserve water as it is towaste it. Try this activity to help your class (and maybe the whole school) cut back on water waste.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) monitor their daily actions and estimate the amount of water they use in a day, (2) describe how water is wastedand why it is important to conserve it, (3) design and implement a water conservation plan, and (4) determine the amount of water and money savedthrough their plan.PLT Skills : Predict, Estimate, Organize information, Analyze, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 38 4.21.D (p.A-116)Summarize and organize ideas gainedfrom multiple sources in useful wayssuch as outlines, conceptual maps,learning logs, and timelines

4.11.B (p.A-17)Estimate and measure capacityusing standard units includingmilliliters, liters, cups, pints,quarts, and gallons





5.2.E (p.A-18)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts using toolsincluding computers to organize,examine, and evaluate information

5.9.B (p.A-32)Identify reasons why people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in the United States,past and present, such as the useof human resources to meet basicneeds

6 38 6.20.D (p.B-22)Summarize and organize ideas gainedfrom multiple sources in useful wayssuch as outlines, conceptual maps,learning logs, and timelines


6.2.E (p.B-2)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts using toolsincluding computers to organize,examine, and evaluate information







8.12.A (p.B-12)Select an appropriate measure ofcentral tendency to describe a set ofdata for a particular purpose



61

Lesson 39 pages 126-130: Energy Sleuths - Overview: Important issues revolve around our use of energy. One issue is the growing scarcity of someenergy resources. Another is the threat to our environment caused by our current energy systems. In this activity, your students will learn about differentsources of energy, as well as how energy is used in their daily lives.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify different energy sources, (2) discuss the pros and cons of various energy sources from economic, social,and environmental perspectives, and (3) describe some of the ways people use energy in their daily lives.PLT Skills: Research, Define problems, Organize information, Identify attributes and components, Summarize, Establish criteria, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




6.9.C (p.B-4)Research and describe energy typesfrom their source to their use anddetermine if the type is renewable,non-renewable, or inexhaustible

6.6.C (p.B-3)Analyze the effects of physicalprocesses and the physicalenvironment on human



7.8.A (p.B-8)Illustrate examples of potential andkinetic energy in everyday life suchas objects at rest, movement ofgeologic faults, and falling water

7.20.D (p.B-15)Evaluate the effects of scientificdiscoveries and technologicalinnovations on the use ofresources such as fossil fuels,water, and land



8.10.B (p.B-13)Describe interactions among solar,weather, and ocean systems


62

Lesson 40 pages 131-132: Then And Now - Overview: If your community is like most others, it’s now quite a bit different than it was 100, 50, 25, or even5 years ago. This activity will help your students to understand how we, as people, affect and alter the environment in which we live.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the environmental changes that have occurred in their community over the course of time, (2) discusswhether those changes have been positive or negative for the community, and (3) discuss ways to remedy negative changes.PLT Skills: Research, Formulate questions, Compare and Contrast, Generalize, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 40 3.12.A (p.A-84)Identify relevant questions for inquirysuch as “What Native Americantribes inhabit(ed) Texas?”


3.6.B (p.A-12)Identify that the surface of theEarth can be changed by forcessuch as earthquakes and glaciers


4 40 4.13.A (p.A-110)Form and revise questions forinvestigations, including questionsarising from interests and units ofstudy


4.10.A (p.A-16)Identify and observe effects ofevents that require time for changesto be noticeable including growth,erosion, dissolving, weathering,and flow




5.11.A (p.A-20)Identify and observe actions thatrequire time for changes to bemeasurable, including growth,erosion, dissolving, weathering,and flow


6 40 6.13.A (p.B-15)Form and revise questions forinvestigations, including questionsarising from interests and units ofstudy


6.6.C (p.B-3)Identify forces that shape featuresof the Earth including uplifting,movement of water, and volcanicactivity




7.14.A (p.B-9)Describe and predict the impact ofdifferent catastrophic events on theearth




8.14.A (p.B-14)Predict land features resulting fromgradual changes such as mountainbuilding, beach erosion, landsubsidence, and continental drift


63

Theme: Systems

Lesson 41 pages 135-136: How Plants Grow - Overview: A plant is a biological system with these basic requirements for functioning and growing:sunlight, water, air, soil, and space. This activity allows students to explore what happens when a plant’s basic needs are not met.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) set up an experiment to determine what factors are necessary for plant growth and (2) measure and compare plantgrowth under different conditionsPLT Skills: Observe, Predict, Organize, Analyze results

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

41 K.12.C (p.a-13)Draw conclusions from informationgathered

K.10.A (p.A-3)Compare and order two or threeconcrete objects according tolength, (shorter or longer, capacity(holds more or holds less), orweight (lighter or heavier)

K.9.C (p.A-4)Identify ways that the Earth canprovide resources for life


1 41 1.15.C (p.A-36)Draw conclusions from informationgathered


1.9.B (p.A-6)Compare and give examples ofways living organisms depend oneach other for their basic needs





2.17.B (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,television, maps, computersoftware, literature, referencesources, and artifacts

3 41 3.12.E (p.A-84)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation, including maps, charts,graphs, and diagram


3.8.B (p.A-12)Observe and identify organismswith similar needs that competewith one another for resources suchas oxygen, water, food, or space

3.16.E (p.A-19)Obtain information, includinghistorical and geographic dataabout the community, using avariety of print, oral, visual, andcomputer sources

4 41 4.14.D (p.A-110)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation, including maps, charts,graphs, and diagrams to addressresearch questions

4,12 (p.A-17)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length, includingperimeter, time, temperature, andarea

4.9.A (p.A-16)Distinguish between inherited traitsand learned characteristics


64

Lesson 41 pages 135-136: How Plants Grow - Overview: A plant is a biological system with these basic requirements for functioning and growing:sunlight, water, air, soil, and space. This activity allows students to explore what happens when a plant’s basic needs are not met.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) set up an experiment to determine what factors are necessary for plant growth and (2) measure and compare plantgrowth under different conditionsPLT Skills: Observe, Predict, Organize, Analyze results

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 41 5.13.D (p.A-139)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation, including maps, graphs,timelines, tables, and diagrams toaddress research questions


5.9.B (p.A-20)Compare the adaptivecharacteristics that result in anorganism’s unique niche in anecosystem


6 41 6.13.D (p.B-16)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation, including maps, graphs,timelines, or tables to addressresearch questions



6.21.C (p.B-7)Organize and interpret informationin outlines, reports, databases, andvisuals including graphs, charts,timelines, and maps






8.12.C (p.B-12)Construct circle graphs, bar graphs,and histograms, with or withouttechnology



65

Lesson 42 pages 137-138: Sunlight And Shades Of Green - Overview: This activity introduces students to photosynthesis, the process that enables trees andother green plants to use sunlight to manufacture their own food.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) test the effects of lack of sunlight on plants leaves and (2) describe the process of photosynthesis and how itenables a plant to survive.PLT Skills: Observe, Form concepts, Infer, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


2 42 2.9.H (p.A-56)Produce summaries of text selections




3 42 3.9.H. (p.A-81)Produce summaries of text selections



3.17.A (p.A-20)Express ideals orally based onknowledge and experiences

4 42 4.10.G (p.A-107)Paraphrase and summarize text torecall, inform, and organize ideas


4.11.C (p.A-16)Identify the Sun as the majorsource of energy for the earth andunderstand its role in the growth ofplants, in the creation of winds,and in the water cycle

4.23.C (p.A-28)Express ideals orally based onknowledge and experiences

5 42 5.10.G (p.A-136)Paraphrase and summarize text torecall, inform, and organize ideas


5.5.A (p.A-19)Describe some cycles, structures,and processes that are found in asimple system

5.26.C (p.A-36)Express ideals orally based onknowledge and experiences

6 42 6.10.G (p.B-12)Paraphrase and summarize text torecall, inform, and organize ideas



6.22.C (p.B-8)Express ideals orally based onknowledge and experiences



7.11.B (p.B-9)Identify responses in organisms toexternal stimuli found in theenvironment such as the presenceor absence of light

7.21.B (p.B-15)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, and drawinginferences/conclusions

66

Lesson 42 pages 137-138: Sunlight And Shades Of Green - Overview: This activity introduces students to photosynthesis, the process that enables trees andother green plants to use sunlight to manufacture their own food.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) test the effects of lack of sunlight on plants leaves and (2) describe the process of photosynthesis and how itenables a plant to survive.PLT Skills: Observe, Form concepts, Infer, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson






67

Lesson 43 pages 139-141: Have Seeds Will Travel - Overview: A plant is a biological system. Its processes and components enable it to grow andreproduce. This activity will introduce your students to one aspect of a plant’s reproductive system; its seeds.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) sort or classify plant seeds they have collected, and (2) model or design seeds that use varying methods ofdispersal.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify, Categorize, Organize information, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

43 K.12.C (p.A-13)Draw conclusions from informationgathered


K.6.B (p.A-3)Record observations about parts ofplants including leaves, roots,stems, and flowers


1 43 1.15.C (p.A-36)Draw conclusions from informationgathered


1.6.B (p.A-6)Observe and describe the parts ofplants and animals




2.6.C (p.A-9)Observe and record the functions ofplant parts








4.8.A (p.A-16)Identify characteristics amongspecies that allow each to surviveand reproduce

4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, and drawinginferences/conclusions

68




5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations/predictions, and drawinginferences/conclusions

69

Lesson 43 pages 139-141: Have Seeds Will Travel - Overview: A plant is a biological system. Its processes and components enable it to grow andreproduce. This activity will introduce your students to one aspect of a plant’s reproductive system; its seeds.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) sort or classify plant seeds they have collected, and (2) model or design seeds that use varying methods ofdispersal.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify, Categorize, Organize information, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 43 6.13.G. (p.B-16)Draw conclusions from informationgathered from multiple sources

6.13.A (p.B-4)Make conjectures from patterns orsets of examples and nonexamples

6.10.C (p.B-4)Identify how structurecomplements function at differentlevels of organization includingorgans, organ system, organisms,and populations


7 43 7.13.G. (p.B-44)Draw conclusions from informationgathered from multiple sources








70

Lesson 44 pages 142-147: Water Wonders - Overview: The water cycle is the system by which Earth’s fixed amount of water is collected, purified, anddistributed from the environment to living things and back to the environment. Plants play a large part in the cycle by absorbing water with their roots andtranspiring it as vapor through their leaves. This activity will introduce students to the various steps of the water cycle and to the various paths water cantake. They will also make connections between the water cycle and all living things.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) simulate the paths that water takes in the water cycle, (2) describe the importance of the water cycle to livingthings, (3) conduct an experiment to discover how plants affect the movement of water in a watershed, and (4) describe how plants are important inmaintaining water quality.PLT Skills: Organize information, , Predict, Compare and Contrast, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




4.11.B (p.A-16)Summarize the effects of theoceans on land




5.6.B (p.A-19)Identify the significance of thewater, carbon, and nitrogen cycles








7.14.B (p.B-9)Analyze effects of regionalerosional deposition and weathering






71

Lesson 45 pages 148-150: Web Of Life - Overview: In this activity, students will take a close look at one particular ecosystem (a forest) and will discover theways that plants and animals are connected to each other. By substituting the appropriate information, you can also use the activity to study otherecosystems, such as oceans, deserts, marshes, or prairies.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) collect information about various organisms in an ecosystem, (2) create a mural that depicts the interdependenceof various organisms with other components in an ecosystem, and (3) create a simulated web of life using a ball of string.PLT Skills: Research, Discuss, Identify relationships and patterns, Predict

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemsuch as plants in a schoolyard, andparts in nonliving systems such asa light bulb in a circuit




5.6.C (p.A-19)Describe and compare life cycles ofplants and animals



6.12.B (p.B-4)Evaluate the effectiveness ofdifferent representations tocommunicate ideas



7 45 724.A (P.B-49)Select, organize, or produce visualsto complement and extend meanings






8.6.C (p.B-12)Describe interactions withinecosystems


72

Lesson 46 pages 151-152: School Yard Safari - Overview: Every organism requires a place to live that satisfies its basic needs for food, water, shelter, andspace. Such a place is called a habitat. In this activity, students will go on a safari to explore a nearby habitat, the school yard, while looking for signs ofanimals living there.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) find signs of animals living in the school yard and (2) describe ways the school environment provides thoseanimals with what they need to live.PLT Skills: Observe, Conclude, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

46 K.12.B (p.A-13)Use pictures, print, and people togather information and answerquestions

K.12.B (p.A-3)Use information from a graph ofreal objects or pictures in order toanswer questions


K.16.A (p.A-4)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experience




1.18.A (p.A-9)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experience



2.9.B (p.A-9)Compare and give examples of theways living organisms depend oneach other and on theirenvironment








4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemssuch as plants in a schoolyard, andparts in nonliving system such as alight bulb in a circuit

4.23.C (p.A-28)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experience


5.13.C (p.A-21)Graph a given set of data using anappropriate graphical representationsuch as picture or line

5.9.B (p.A-20)Analyze and describe adaptivecharacteristics of species thatimprove their ability to survive andreproduce in an ecosystem

5.26.C (p.A-36)Express ideas orally based onknowledge and experience

73

Lesson 47 pages 153-155: Are Vacant Lots Vacant? - Overview: Look closely and you will see that a vacant lot is not so vacant! Plants of all kinds thrivein vacant lots, along with a host of animals such as insects, birds, and mammals. In this activity, a nearby vacant lot, overgrown strip, or a landscaped areawill provide a rich laboratory for students to examine elements of an ecosystem.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe plants and animals that live at and around the study site, and (2) give examples of and describeecological relationships between biotic and abiotic elements at the study site.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Identify relationships and patterns, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK -K


K.13.B (p.A-4)Use a problem-solving model, withguidance, that incorporatesunderstanding the problem, makinga plan, carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness




1.11.B (p.A-7)Use a problem-solving model, withguidance, that incorporatesunderstanding the problem, makinga plan, carrying out the plan, andevaluating the solution forreasonableness











4 47 4.5.B (p.A-103)Demonstrate effectivecommunications skills that reflectsuch demands as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation


4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemssuch as plants in a schoolyard, andparts in nonliving systems such asa light bulb in a circuit


74

Lesson 47 pages 153-155: Are Vacant Lots Vacant? - Overview: Look closely and you will see that a vacant lot is not so vacant! Plants of all kinds thrivein vacant lots, along with a host of animals such as insects, birds, and mammals. In this activity, a nearby vacant lot, overgrown strip, or a landscaped areawill provide a rich laboratory for students to examine elements of an ecosystem.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe plants and animals that live at and around the study site, and (2) give examples of and describeecological relationships between biotic and abiotic elements at the study site.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Identify relationships and patterns, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 47 5.5.B (p.A-132)Demonstrate effectivecommunications skills that reflectsuch demands as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation


5.10.B (p.A-20)Give examples of learnedcharacteristics that result from theinfluence of the environment


6 47 6.5.B (p.B-8)Demonstrate effectivecommunications skills that reflectsuch demands as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation






7.12.B (p.B-9)Observe and describe howorganisms including producers,consumers, and decomposers livetogether in an environment and useexisting resources

7.21.B (p.B-15)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparingcontrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions



8.6.C (p.B-12)Describe the interactions withinecosystems


75

Lesson 48 pages 156-159: Field, Forest, and Stream - Overview: In this activity students will examine three different environments as they focus onsunlight, soil moisture, temperature, wind, plants, and animals, in each environment. By comparing different environments, students will begin to considerhow nonliving elements influence living elements in an ecosystem.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) investigate and measure components in three different ecosystems, (2) describe similarities and differences theyobserve among three ecosystems, and (2) identify way that the abiotic components of an ecosystem affect the biotic components.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Compare and Contrast, Identify relationships and patterns

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 48 1.15.C (p.A-36)Draw conclusions from gatheredinformation

1.10.A (p.A-7)Draw conclusions and answerquestions using informationorganized in real-objects graphs,picture graphs, and bar-type graphs

1.9.A (p.A-6)Identify characteristics of livingorganisms that allow their basicneed to be met


2 48 2.12.H (p.A-59)Draw conclusions from gatheredinformation

2.11.B (p.A-10)Draw conclusions and answerquestions based on picture graphsand bar-type graphs

2.7.A (p.A-9)Observe, measure, record, analyze,predict, illustrate changes in size,mass, temperature, color, position,quantity, sound, and movement

2.18.B (p.A-14)Create visual and written materialsuch as stories, poems, maps, andgraphic organizers to express ideas

3 48 3.12.J (p.A-85)Draw conclusions from gatheredinformation

3.14.B (p.A-14)Interpret information frompictographs and bar graphs





4.11.A (p.A-16)Test properties of soils includingtexture, capacity to retain water,and ability to support life







6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involving lengtharea, time, temperature, capacity,and weight



76

Lesson 48 pages 156-159: Field, Forest, and Stream - Overview: In this activity students will examine three different environments as they focus onsunlight, soil moisture, temperature, wind, plants, and animals, in each environment. By comparing different environments, students will begin to considerhow nonliving elements influence living elements in an ecosystem.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) investigate and measure components in three different ecosystems, (2) describe similarities and differences theyobserve among three ecosystems, and (2) identify way that the abiotic components of an ecosystem affect the biotic components.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Compare and Contrast, Identify relationships and patterns

GradeLevel

PLTLesson










77

Lesson 49 pages160-168: Tropical Treehouse - Overview: In this activity, studying tropical rainforests and issues involving the use of rainforests will enableyour students to make more informed decisions regarding the future of such regions. While tropical rainforests and the temperate forest of North Americaoperate on many of the same ecological principles, they differ greatly in their climates, and in the types of soil, plants, and animals that make up the forestecosystems.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the plants and animals that live in different levels of the tropical rainforest, and (2) examine and discuss acase study that involves the rights of native inhabitants of a tropical rainforest in a national park, (3) describe the sounds they might encounter whenvisiting a rainforest.PLT Skills: Reason, Discuss, Research, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

49 K.1.C (p.A-6)Participate in rhymes, songs,conversations, and discussions

K.15 (p.A-4)Reason and support his/herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology


K.15.A (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, print material, andartifacts

1 49 1.1.C (p.A-25)Participate in rhymes, songs,conversations, and discussions

1.13 (p.A-7)Reason and support his/herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology

1.6.A (p.A-5)Sort organisms and objectsaccording to their parts andcharacteristics

1.17.A (p.A-9)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of oral sourcessuch as conversations, interviews,and music


2.14 (p.A-11)Reason and support his/herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology



3 49 3.20.D (p.A-90)Compile notes into outlines, reports,summaries, or other written effortsusing available technology



3.4.A (p.A-16)Describe and explain variations inthe physical environmentincluding climate, landforms,natural resources, and naturalhazards



4.5.A (p.A-15)Identify and describe the roles ofsome organisms in living systemssuch as plants in a schoolyard, andparts in nonliving system such as alight bulb in a circuit

4.7.C (p.A-23)Compare the regions of Texaswith regions of the United Statesand other parts of the world

78




5.7.B (p.A-31)Describe regions in the UnitedStates such as landform, climate,and vegetation regions that resultfrom physical characteristics

79

Lesson 49 pages160-168: Tropical Treehouse - Overview: In this activity, studying tropical rainforests and issues involving the use of rainforests will enableyour students to make more informed decisions regarding the future of such regions. While tropical rainforests and the temperate forest of North Americaoperate on many of the same ecological principles, they differ greatly in their climates, and in the types of soil, plants, and animals that make up the forestecosystems.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the plants and animals that live in different levels of the tropical rainforest, and (2) examine and discuss acase study that involves the rights of native inhabitants of a tropical rainforest in a national park, (3) describe the sounds they might encounter whenvisiting a rainforest.PLT Skills: Reason, Discuss, Research, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson





6.6.B (p.B-3)Describe and explain the physicalprocesses that produce renewableand nonrenewable naturalresources such as fossil fuels,fertile soils, and timber



7.12.D (p.B-9)Observe and describe the role ofecological succession inecosystems

7.9.B (p.B-12)Compare places and regions ofTexas in terms of physical andhuman characteristics




8.11.B (p.B-21)Compare places and regions of theUnited States in terms of physicaland human characteristics

80

Lesson 50 pages 169-175: 400-Acre Wood - Overview: In this activity, students will play the roles of managers of a 400-acre (162-hectare) piece of publicforest. Through these roles, students will begin to understand the complex considerations that influence management decisions about forest lands.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) create a management plan for a hypothetical piece of public forest land, taking into account factors such asecosystem stability, monetary income or costs, wildfire, water, and visitors and (2) experience the analysis and decision making that goes intomanaging a forest land.PLT Skills: Identify main ideas, Analyze, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



7.2.F (p.B-6)Select and use appropriateoperations to solve problems andjustify selection


7.23.A (p.B-16)Use a decision-making process toidentify a situation that requires adecision, gather information,identify options, predictconsequences, and take action toimplement a decision


8.2.A (p.B-10)Select and use appropriateoperations to solve problems andjustify selection


8.32.A (p.B-28)Use a decision-making process toidentify a situation that requires adecision, gather information,identify options, predictconsequences, and take action toimplement a decision

81

Lesson 51 pages 176-179: Make Your Own Paper - Overview: Paper is one of many products that is manufactured from forest resources. In this activity,students investigate the papermaking process by trying it themselves. While papermaking can be rather messy, it is well worth the effort. Students areusually thrilled to find that they can make paper and that their product is practical as well as beautiful.PLT Objectives: Student will 91) make recycled paper from scrap paper, (2) describe the steps of the papermaking process and identify theelements and outputs of the process, and (3) compare making paper by hand to the process used in factories.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


1 51 1.6.B (p.A-6)Draw conclusions from informationgathered


1.2.B (p.A-5)Identify, predict, and create patternsincluding those seen in charts,graphs, and numbers

1.6.B (p.A-6)Identify examples of and uses fornatural resources in thecommunity, state, and nation




2.8.D (p.A-12)Identify ways people can conserveand replenish natural resources


3.13 (p.A-13)Apply measurement concepts

3.2.A (p.A-11)Plan and implement descriptiveinvestigations including askingwell-defined questions, formulatingtestable hypotheses, and selectingand using equipment andtechnology


4 51 4.25.A (p.A-118)Select, organize, or produce visualsor complement and extend meanings

4.11.B (p.A-17)Estimate and measure capacityusing standard units includingmilliliters, liters, cups, pints,quarts, and gallons



5 51 5.25.A (p.A-147)Select, organize, or produce visualsor complement and extend meanings




82

Lesson 51 pages 176-179: Make Your Own Paper - Overview: Paper is one of many products that is manufactured from forest resources. In this activity,students investigate the papermaking process by trying it themselves. While papermaking can be rather messy, it is well worth the effort. Students areusually thrilled to find that they can make paper and that their product is practical as well as beautiful.PLT Objectives: Student will 91) make recycled paper from scrap paper, (2) describe the steps of the papermaking process and identify theelements and outputs of the process, and (3) compare making paper by hand to the process used in factories.PLT Skills: Observe, Organize information, Compare and Contrast

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 51 6.24.A (p.B-24)Select, organize, or produce visualsor complement and extend meanings


6.2.A (p.B-2)Plan and implement descriptiveinvestigations including askingwell-defined questions, formulatingtestable hypotheses, and selectingand using equipment andtechnology



7.9 (p.B-7)Solve application problemsinvolving estimation andmeasurement




8.9 (p.B-11)Use indirect measurement to solveproblems


8.12.B (p.B-22)Describe the consequences ofhuman modifications of thephysical environment of theUnited States

83

Lesson 52 pages 180-184: A Look At Aluminum - Overview: This activity will give your students a better appreciation for aluminum, a nonrenewable butrecyclable natural resource they use every day. They will learn the steps that go into making aluminum products and will get a better idea of theenvironmental impact that using this resource has.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) understand how the unique properties of aluminum make it invaluable for many products and technologies onwhich we depend, (2) describe the steps involved in extracting bauxite, and (3) explain the environmental impacts of producing new aluminum andrecycling aluminum products.PLT Skills: Discuss, Analyze, Order and Arrange, Make analogies and metaphors, Restructure

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 52 5.10.K (p.A-137)Answer different types and levels ofquestions such as open-ended,literal, and interpretative as well astest-like questions, such as multiplechoice, true-false, and short-answer


5.1.B (p.A-17)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources anddisposal or recycling of materials


6 52 6.10.K (p.B-13)Answer different types and levels ofquestions such as open-ended,literal, and interpretative as well astest-like questions, such as multiplechoice, true-false, and short-answer




7 52 7.10.K (p.B-42)Answer different types and levels ofquestions such as open-ended,literal, and interpretative as well astest-like questions, such as multiplechoice, true-false, and short-answer




84

Lesson 52 pages 180-184: A Look At Aluminum - Overview: This activity will give your students a better appreciation for aluminum, a nonrenewable butrecyclable natural resource they use every day. They will learn the steps that go into making aluminum products and will get a better idea of theenvironmental impact that using this resource has.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) understand how the unique properties of aluminum make it invaluable for many products and technologies onwhich we depend, (2) describe the steps involved in extracting bauxite, and (3) explain the environmental impacts of producing new aluminum andrecycling aluminum products.PLT Skills: Discuss, Analyze, Order and Arrange, Make analogies and metaphors, Restructure

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


8 52 8.10. K (p.B-64)Answer different types and levels ofquestions such as open-ended,literal, and interpretative as well astest-like questions, such as multiplechoice, true-false, and short-answer




85

Lesson 53 pages 185-187: On The Move - Overview: In this activity, students will examine transportation systems, which are vital to their community.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) compare various transportation methods for getting to and from school, (2) describe the transportation systemstheir community uses, and (3) design or propose a practical and efficient transportation system for the future.PLT Skills: Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Solve problems, Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson





4.13.E (p.A-25)Explain how developments intransportation and communicationhave influenced economic activitiesin Texas




5.14.E (p.A-33)Analyze how developments intransportation and communicationhave influenced economic activitiesin the United States








7.9.C (p.B-12)Analyze the effects of physical andhuman factors such as climate,weather, landforms, irrigation,transportation, and communicationon major events in Texas

86

Lesson 53 pages 185-187: On The Move - Overview: In this activity, students will examine transportation systems, which are vital to their community.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) compare various transportation methods for getting to and from school, (2) describe the transportation systemstheir community uses, and (3) design or propose a practical and efficient transportation system for the future.PLT Skills: Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Solve problems, Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson





8.28.B (p.B-26)Analyze the impact oftransportation systems on thegrowth, development, andurbanization of the United States

87

Lesson 54 pages 188-190: I’D Like To Visit A Place Where… - Overview: In this activity, students will explore the concept that recreation areas areessential elements of a community. By working on a project to improve a local park, they will also learn about the community’s system for managing openspaces.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the characteristics of their favorite recreational area, (2) explain the importance of recreational areas topeople and other living things, and (3) conduct a project at a local park to improve a habitat or enhance its suitability to people.PLT Skills: Observe, Compare and Contrast, Define problems, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

54 K.7.A (p.A-10)Name and identify each letter of thealphabet

K.13.D (p.A-4)Use tools such as real objects,manipulatives, and technology tosolve problems

K.2.E (p.A-2)Communicate findings aboutsimple investigations


1 54 1.7.A (p.A-29)Name and identify each letter of thealphabet




2 54 2.12.B (p.A-58)Name and identify each letter of thealphabet




3 54 3.12.B (p.A-84)Use alphabetical order to locatedinformation




4 54 4.15.F (p.A-112)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, reviews,poems, narrative, and instructions



4.9.B (p.A-24)Identify reasons why people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in Texas, past andpresent, such as the use of naturalresources to meet basic need

5 54 5.15.F (p.A-141)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, reviews,poems, narrative, and instructions



5.9.B (p.A-32)Identify reasons why people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in the United States,past and present, such as the use ofhuman resources to meet basicneeds

88

6 54 6.15.F (p.B-17)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, presentations,narratives, reports and instructions




89

Lesson 54 pages 188-190: I’D Like To Visit A Place Where… - Overview: In this activity, students will explore the concept that recreation areas areessential elements of a community. By working on a project to improve a local park, they will also learn about the community’s system for managing openspaces.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the characteristics of their favorite recreational area, (2) explain the importance of recreational areas topeople and other living things, and (3) conduct a project at a local park to improve a habitat or enhance its suitability to people.PLT Skills: Observe, Compare and Contrast, Define problems, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


7 54 7.15.F (p.B-45)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, memoirs, narratives,and instructions



7.9.B (p.B-12)Compare places and regions ofTexas in terms of physical andhuman characteristics

8 54 8.15.F (p.B-67)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems,memoirs, narratives, and instructions



8.11.B (p.B-21)Compare places and regions of theUnited States in terms of physicaland human characteristics

90

Lesson 55 pages191-192: Planning The Ideal Community - Overview: In this activity, students will explore the elements that compose a humancommunity. They will survey the area around their school, looking for community systems that help them live there. Then they will plan an idealcommunity that meets all the needs of its members.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) map the locations of services and resources in their community, and (2) create a map of an “ideal” communitythat includes all the services and resources people need to live there.PLT Skills: Represent, Identify attributes and components, Restructure, Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 55 6.5.F (p.B-8)Clarify and support spoken ideas withevidence, elaboration, and examples


6.2.E (p.B-2)Construct graphs, tables, maps, andcharts using tools includingcomputers to organize, examine, andevaluate data









8.30.C (p.A-27)Organize and interpretinformation from outlines,reports, databases, and visualsincluding graphs, charts,timelines, and maps

91

Lesson 56 pages193-196: We Can Work It Out - Overview: When certain people decide how to use a particular piece of land, the decision can involve andaffect many people in many ways. There fore, groups must establish processes for planning and resolving conflicts about land use. In this activity, studentswill develop a plan to address a land-use issue.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) develop solutions to a land-use problem involving urban open space and (2) simulate a city council meeting todiscuss and decide on a land-use issue.PLT Skills: Discuss, Make decisions, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 56 5.5.B (p.A-132)Demonstrate effectivecommunications skills that reflectdemands such as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation



5.19 (p.A-34)Understand the importance ofindividual participation in thedemocratic process

6 56 6.5.B (p.B-8)Demonstrate effectivecommunications skills that reflectdemands such as interviewing,reporting, requesting, and providinginformation



6.13.B (p.B-5)Explain how opportunities forcitizens to participate in andinfluence the political processvary among selected contemporarysocieties




7.16.B (p.B-14)Describe the importance of freespeech and press in a democraticsociety




8.20.D (p.B-24)Identify examples of responsiblecitizenship, including obeyingrules and laws, voting, andserving on juries

92

Lesson 57 pages 1997-200: Democracy In Action - Overview: Democratic systems depend on the involvement of citizens in policy making and decisionmaking. This activity will help students learn about the roles and responsibilities of citizens’ groups in environmental policies and decision making, andabout how young people can become involved in the process.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) compare two citizen groups, special-interest groups, or government agencies involved in the same issues, (2) createvisual representations of the two groups, and (3) explain ways students can become involved in the civic action process through participation in suchgroups.PLT Skills: Research, Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 57 5.13.F (p.A-140)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meanings as appropriate



5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause-and-effectrelationships, comparingcontrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

6 57 6.13.I (p.B-16)Present organized statements, reports,and speeches using visuals or mediato support meaning , as appropriate








93

Lesson 57 pages 1997-200: Democracy In Action - Overview: Democratic systems depend on the involvement of citizens in policy making and decisionmaking. This activity will help students learn about the roles and responsibilities of citizens’ groups in environmental policies and decision making, andabout how young people can become involved in the process.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) compare two citizen groups, special-interest groups, or government agencies involved in the same issues, (2) createvisual representations of the two groups, and (3) explain ways students can become involved in the civic action process through participation in suchgroups.PLT Skills: Research, Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson






94

Lesson 58 pages 201-204: There Ought To Be A Law - Overview: In democratic societies, citizens have the power to influence the lawmaking process. Inthis activity, students will find out how local laws are made and how they can get involved in the process.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe how a group of students can make and change rules, (2) compare rule-making in a group to thelawmaking process in local government, (3) research the steps necessary to make a proposed change in their community, and (4) create a poster thatshows the effects of their proposed change and that depicts the lawmaking process.PLT Skills: Research, Analyze, Discuss, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 58 3.2.A (p.A-76)Connect experiences and ideas withthose of others through speaking andlistening

3.16. A (p.A-14)Explain and record observationsusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology


3.10.C (p.A-18)Identify and explain theimportance of acts of civicresponsibility, including obeyinglaws and voting

4 58 4.4.A (p.A-102)Connect his/her own experiences,information, insights, and ideas withthose of others through speaking andlistening



4.18.A (p.A-26)Explain how individuals canparticipate voluntarily in civicaffairs at state and local levels

5 58 5.4.A (p.A-132)Connect his/her own experiences,information, insights, and ideas withthose of others through speaking andlistening



5.19 (p.A-34)Understand the importance ofindividual participation in thedemocratic process

6 58 6.13.E (p.B-16)Summarize and organize informationfrom multiple sources by takingnotes, outlining ideas, and makingcharts



6.13.B (p.B-5)Explain how opportunities forcitizens to participate in andinfluence the political processvary among selected contemporarysocieties




7.16.B (p.B-14)Identify civic responsibilities ofTexas citizens


8.4. (p.B-10)Generate a different representationgiven one representation of datasuch as a table, graph, equation, orverbal description


8.20.D (p.B-24)Identify examples of responsiblecitizenship, including obeyingrules and laws, voting, andserving on juries

95

Lesson 59 pages 205-208: Power Of Print - Overview: Newspapers keep the community informed about current events and trends, provide a forum fordiscussion of public issues, and are a source of entertainment. In this activity, students will examine articles from different sections of the newspaper bycomparing and contrasting the different types of words and styles they employ.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) compare different sections of a daily newspaper, (2) analyze some of the ways ideas and opinions are expressedthrough word choice, (3) research opposing sides of a local environmental issue, and (4) write articles on environmental issues using both objectiveand subjective points of view.PLT Skills: Compare and contrast, Analyze, Synthesize and Create, Compose

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 59 3.9.J (p.A-81)Distinguish fact from opinion invarious texts, including news storiesand advertisements


3.3.B (p.A-11)Draw inferences based oninformation related to promotionalmaterials for products and services

3.11.B (p.A-18)Identify examples of actionsindividuals and groups can take toimprove the community

4 59 4.10.J (p.A-107)Distinguish fact and opinion invarious texts




5 59 5.10.J (p.A-137)Distinguish fact and opinion invarious texts






6.3.B (p.B-2)Draw inferences based oninformation related to promotionalmaterials for products and services







8.16 (p.B-13)Use logical reasoning to makeconjectures and verify conclusions


8.30.E (p.B-27)Identify different points of viewabout an issue or topic

96

Lesson 60 pages 209-214: Publicize It! - Overview: The news media, including television, newspapers, and radio, provide community members with asystem for getting and spreading information about environmental issues. This activity can be done in conjunction with any of the action projects in thisactivity guide. Students will conduct an environmental action project and use various media to inform others in the community about the project.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) plan and carry out a community action project and (2) use the media to create public awareness about the event.PLT Skills: Make decisions, Identify main ideas, Solve problems, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 60 5.15.F (p.A-141)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, reviews,poems, narratives, and instructions


5.2.A (p.A-18)Plan and implement descriptive andsimple experimental investigationsincluding asking well-definedquestions, formulating, testablehypotheses, and selecting and usingequipment and technology


6 60 6.15.F (p.B-17)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, presentations,narratives, reports, and instructions


6.2.A (p.B-2)Plan and implement descriptive andsimple experimental investigationsincluding asking well-definedquestions, formulating, testablehypotheses, and selecting and usingequipment and technology


7 60 7.15.F (p.B-45)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing suchas journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, memoirs, narratives,and instructions




97

8 60 8.15.F (p.B-67)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing suchas journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, memoirs, narratives,and instructions




Lesson 61 pages 217-218: The Closer You Look - Overview - All students have an idea of what a tree looks like. But many are unfamiliar with either theactual structure of a tree or the function of its principle parts. In this activity, your students will take a closer look at trees and their parts.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the overall structure of a tree, and (2) describe the structure and function of a tree’s principle parts.PLT Skills : Observe, Compare and Contrast, Identify attributes and components, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K


K.14.A (p.A-4)Explain and record observationsusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology















98









99

Lesson 61 pages 217-218: The Closer You Look - Overview - All students have an idea of what a tree looks like. But many are unfamiliar with either theactual structure of a tree or the function of its principle parts. In this activity, your students will take a closer look at trees and their parts.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the overall structure of a tree, and (2) describe the structure and function of a tree’s principle parts.PLT Skills : Observe, Compare and Contrast, Identify attributes and components, Interpret

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




6.10.C (p.B-4)Identify how structure complementsfunction at different levels oforganization including organs,organisms, populations


100

Lesson 62 pages 219-222: To Be A Tree - Overview - By making a tree costume, your students will gain an awareness of a tree’s structure and function.PLT Objectives: Students will create a tree costume and learn the structure and function of tree parts.PLT Skills: Order and Arrange, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

62 K.10.C (p.A-12)Respond through talk, movement,music, art, drama, and writing to avariety of stories and poems in waysthat reflect understanding andinterpretation

K.15 (p.A-4)Reason and support his or herthinking using objects, words,pictures, numbers, and technology


K.15.A (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of oral sourcessuch as conversations, interviews,and music

1 62 1.13.C (p.A-34)Respond through talk, movement,music, art, drama, and writing to avariety of stories and poems in waysthat reflect understanding andinterpretation


1.6.B (p.A-6)Observe and describe parts of plantsand animals







3.17 (p.A-14)Use logical reasoning to makesense of his or her world



4 62 4.5.C (p.A-103)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperiences, stories, poems, or playsto communicate




101

Lesson 63 pages 223-227: Tree Factory - Overview - By acting out the parts of a tree, your students will see how a tree works like a factory. Afterward,they can create their own “tree factories.”PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the general structure of a tree and (2) explain how different parts of a tree help the tree function.PLT Skills: Order and Arrange, Represent, Identify attributes and components, Comprehend

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

63 K.3.D (p.A-7)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperiences, stories, poems, or plays




1 63 1.3.D (p.A-27)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperiences, stories, poems, or plays




















6 63 6.5.C (p.B-8)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperiences, stories, poems, or playsto communicate


6.10.C (p.B-4)Identify how structurecomplements function at differentlevels of organization includingorgans, organ systems, organisms,and populations


102

Lesson 64 pages228-231: Looking At Leaves - Overview - Are leaves ever hairy? Do they have teeth? In this activity, your students will take a closer lookat leaves and find out more about leaf characteristics and how leaves can be used to identify trees.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe how leaf shapes, sizes, and other characteristics vary from tree to tree and (2) explain how particulartypes of tress can be identified by their leaves.PLT Skills: Compare and contrast, Classify and Categorize, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

64 K.12.B (p.A-13)Use pictures, print, and people togather information and answerquestions


K.6.C (p.A-3)Record observations about parts ofplants including leaves, roots,stems, and flowers


1 64 1.23.B (p.A-40)Record or dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in variousways such as by drawing pictures,making lists, and showingconnections among ideas





2.7.A (p.A-9)Identify attributes of any shape orsolid










4.22.B (p.A-27)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions

103


GradeLevel

PLTLesson





5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions



6.2.B (p.B-2)Collect information by observingand measuring

6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the main idea,summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions





104


GradeLevel

PLTLesson






105

Lesson 65 pages 232-233: Bursting Buds - Overview - In early spring, the tiny, bright green leaves of many trees burst forth. Where do the leaves comefrom? How do they form? In this activity, your students will find the answers to these questions on their own by observing tree buds throughout the year.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explain the purpose of a tree’s buds and their relationship to the leaves and (2) describe the stages that buds gothrough as the leaves develop throughout the year.PLT Skills: Observe, Order and Arrange, Identify attributes and components, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K



K.4.B (p.A-2)Make observation using toolsincluding hand lenses, balances,cups, bowls, and computers

K.15.B (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, symbols,television, maps, computerimages, print material, andartifacts



1.4.C (p.A-5)Measure organisms and objects andparts of organisms and objects,using non-standard units such aspaper clips, hands, and pencils




2.4.B (p.A-8)Measure and compare organismsand objects and parts of organismsand objects, using standard andnon-standard units

2.17.B (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,television, maps, computersoftware, literature, referencesources, and artifacts



3.4. A (A-11)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, camera, safetygoggles, sound recorders, clocks,computers, thermometers, handlenses, meter sticks, rulers,balances, magnets, and compasses

3.16.C (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, identifying cause and effect,and comparing and contrasting

106

Lesson 65 pages 232-233: Bursting Buds - Overview - In early spring, the tiny, bright green leaves of many trees burst forth. Where do the leaves comefrom? How do they form? In this activity, your students will find the answers to these questions on their own by observing tree buds throughout the year.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explain the purpose of a tree’s buds and their relationship to the leaves and (2) describe the stages that buds gothrough as the leaves develop throughout the year.PLT Skills: Observe, Order and Arrange, Identify attributes and components, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson














107

Lesson 66 pages 234-238: Germinating Giants - Overview - In this activity, students can sharpen their math skills by comparing their local trees to theworld’s tallest tree, the coast redwood, and to the tree with the largest seeds, the coconut palm.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) measure certain physical characteristics of at least three different trees and (2) compare various measurementsfrom these trees and draw conclusions about the nature of each tree.PLT Skills: Compare and contrast, Conclude, Identify attributes and components, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




4.4.A (p.A-15)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, camera, safetygoggles, sound recorders, clocks,computers, thermometers, handlenses, meter sticks, rulers,balances, magnets, and compasses




5.4.A (p.A-19)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, camera, soundrecorders, computers, hand lenses,rulers, thermometers, compasses,balances, hot plates, meter sticks,timing devices, magnets, collectingnets, and safety goggles

5.25.C (p.a-36)Organize and interpret informationin outlines, reports, databases, andvisuals including graphs, charts,timelines, and maps


6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involving length(including perimeter andcircumference), area time,temperature, capacity, and weight

6.4.A (p.B-3)Collect, analyze, and recordinformation using tools includingbeakers, petri dishes, meter sticks,graduated cylinders, weatherinstruments, timing devices, hotplates, test tubes, safety goggles,spring scales, magnets, balances,microscopes, telescopes,thermometers, calculators, fieldequipment, compasses, computers,and computer probes


108

Lesson 67 pages 239-243: How Big Is Your Tree? - Overview - Trees come in various shapes and sizes. In this activity, students will measure trees indifferent ways and become familiar with the tree’s structure. They will also learn the importance of standard units of measure and measuring techniques.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) measure and compare trees and tree parts, (2) discuss how and why people measure things, including trees, and (3)explain the need for consistency in measuring.PLT Skills: Observe, Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Translate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

67 K.8.A (p.A-10)Discuss meanings of words anddevelop vocabulary throughmeaningful/concrete experiences

K.10.B (p.B-3)Find concrete objects that are aboutthe same as, less than, or greaterthan a given object according tolength, capacity, or weight



1 67 1.11.A (p.A-33)Discuss meanings of words anddevelop vocabulary throughmeaningful/concrete experiences


1.4.C (p.A-5)Measure organisms and objects andparts of organisms and objects,using non-standard units such aspaper clips, hands, and pencils


2 67 2.8.A (p.A-55)Discuss meanings of words anddevelop vocabulary throughmeaningful/concrete experiences

2.9.A (p.A-10)Identify concrete models thatapproximate standard units oflength, capacity, and weight

2.4.B (pA-8)Measure and compare organismsand objects and parts of organismsand objects, using standard and non-standard units


3 67 3.12.E (p.A-84)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation, including maps, charts,graphs, and diagrams

3.11.A (p.A-13)Estimate and measure lengths,using standard units such as inch,foot, yard, centimeter, decimeter,and meter







109

Lesson 67 pages 239-243: How Big Is Your Tree? - Overview - Trees come in various shapes and sizes. In this activity, students will measure trees indifferent ways and become familiar with the tree’s structure. They will also learn the importance of standard units of measure and measuring techniques.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) measure and compare trees and tree parts, (2) discuss how and why people measure things, including trees, and (3)explain the need for consistency in measuring.PLT Skills: Observe, Compare and Contrast, Analyze, Translate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




5.4.A (p.A-19)Collect and analyze informationusing tools including calculators,microscopes, camera, soundrecorders, computers, hand lenses,rulers, thermometers, compasses,balances, hot plates, meter sticks,timing devices, magnets, collectingnets, and safety goggles




6.4.A (p.B-3)Collect, analyze, and recordinformation using tools includingbeakers, petri dishes, meter sticks,graduated cylinders, weatherinstruments, timing devices, hotplates, test tubes, safety goggles,spring scales, magnets, balances,microscopes, telescopes,thermometers, calculators, fieldequipment, compasses, computers,and computer probes







8.8.C (p.B-11)Estimate answers and use formulasto solve application problemsinvolving surface area and volume



110

Lesson 68 pages 244-246: Name That Tree - Overview - Tree species can be identified by looking at several different features: leaves, bark, twigs, flowers,fruits, and seeds. Even the overall shape of a tree can give clues to the tree’s identify. In this activity, your students will learn more about trees byidentifying features. Afterward, they can play an active game that tests their knowledge of different types of trees.PLT Objectives: Students will identify several trees using various structural characteristics.PLT Skills: Compare and Contrast, Classify and Categorize, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




2.6.C (p.A-9)Observe and record the functionsof plant parts


3 68 3.20.B (p.a-89)Record his/her own knowledge of atopic in various ways such as bydrawing pictures, making lists, andshowing connections among ideas



3.16.C (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, predicting, and comparingand contrasting







5.10.A (p.A-20)Identify traits that are inheritedfrom parent to offspring in plantsand animals


111

Lesson 68 pages 244-246: Name That Tree - Overview - Tree species can be identified by looking at several different features: leaves, bark, twigs, flowers,fruits, and seeds. Even the overall shape of a tree can give clues to the tree’s identify. In this activity, your students will learn more about trees byidentifying features. Afterward, they can play an active game that tests their knowledge of different types of trees.PLT Objectives: Students will identify several trees using various structural characteristics.PLT Skills: Compare and Contrast, Classify and Categorize, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 68 6.13.A (p.B-15)Form and revise questions forinvestigations, including questionsarising from readings, assignmentsand units of study


6.10.C (p.B-4)Identify how structurecomplements function at differentlevels of organization includingorgans, organ systems,organisms, and populations


7 68 7.13.A (p.B-43)Form and revise questions forinvestigations, including questionsarising from readings, assignments,and units of study





8.14.A (p.B-12)Identify and apply mathematics toeveryday experiences, to activities inand outside of school, with otherdisciplines, and with othermathematical topics

8.11.A (p.B-13)Identify that change inenvironmental conditions canaffect the survival of individualsand species


112

Lesson 69 pages 247-251: Forest For The Trees - Overview - In this activity, students will role-play managing a tree farm. By using a piece of land as atree farm, they will begin to understand the economic factors that influence management decisions for private forest lands.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) participate in a simulation designed to teach how forest resources are managed and (2) simulate managing a pieceof land for various products.PLT Skills: Identify main idea, Analyze Solve problems Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 69 4.5.C (p.A-103)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperience, stories, poems, or playsto communicate


4.2.C (p.A-14)Analyze and interpret information toconstruct reasonable explanationsfrom direct and indirect evidence

4.24.B (p.A-28)Use a decision-making process toidentify a situation that requires adecision, gather information,identify options, predictconsequences, and take action toimplement a decision

5 69 5.5.C (p.A-132)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperience, stories, poems, or playsto communicate


5.2.C (p.A-18)Analyze and interpret information toconstruct reasonable explanationsfrom direct and indirect evidence


6 69 6.5.C (p.B-8)Present dramatic interpretations ofexperience, stories, poems, or playsto communicate


6.2.C (p.B-2)Analyze and interpret information toconstruct reasonable explanationsfrom direct and indirect evidence




7.2.C (p.B-6)Organize, analyze, make inferences,and predict trends from direct andindirect evidences






113

Lesson 70 pages 252-257: Soil Stories - Overview - Students often wonder why certain plants grow in some places and not in others. Climatic factors suchas temperature, moisture, and sunlight keep palm trees in Florida and fir trees in Oregon, but subtle differences in soil allow an oak to compete moresuccessfully in one area and a maple in another. In this activity, students will explore differences in soil types and what they mean to us.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify components of soil and how these components determine its function, (2) explain how different soil typesdetermine the characteristics of ecosystems, and (3) predict the influence of soils on water filtration and on human use of an area.PLT Skills: Observe, Identify attributes and components, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson




5.12.B (p.A-21)Describe processes responsible forthe formation of coal, oil, gas, andminerals

5.25.B (p.A-36)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions




6.21.B (p.B-7)Analyze information bysequencing, categorizing,identifying cause/effectrelationships, comparing,contrasting, finding the mainidea, summarizing, makinggeneralizations and predictions,and drawing inferences andconclusions


7.9 (B-7)Estimate measurements and solveapplication problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference), area, and volume



114

Lesson 70 pages 252-257: Soil Stories - Overview - Students often wonder why certain plants grow in some places and not in others. Climatic factors suchas temperature, moisture, and sunlight keep palm trees in Florida and fir trees in Oregon, but subtle differences in soil allow an oak to compete moresuccessfully in one area and a maple in another. In this activity, students will explore differences in soil types and what they mean to us.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify components of soil and how these components determine its function, (2) explain how different soil typesdetermine the characteristics of ecosystems, and (3) predict the influence of soils on water filtration and on human use of an area.PLT Skills: Observe, Identify attributes and components, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



8.8 (p.B-11)Use procedures to determinemeasures of solids

8.14.C (p.B-14)Describe how human activitieshave modified soil, water, and airquality


115

Lesson 71 pages 258-264:Watch On Wetlands - Overview: If a duck can paddle in it, it’s a wetland. If a duck can waddle on it, it’s not. If only wetlandscould be defined as simply as this, wetlands issues and legislation would be less muddy. In this activity, students will learn more about wetlands and abouthow land-use decisions and legislation affect these areas.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) study a wetland ecosystem and (2) analyze the issues and opinions relating to the management and protection ofwetlands.PLT Skills: Analyze, Make decisions, Identify attributes and components

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


7 71 7.8.D (p.B-40)Read to take action such as tocomplete forms, make informedrecommendations, and write aresponse

7.11.A (p.B-8)Select and use an appropriaterepresentation for presentingcollected data and justify theselections


7.21.E (p.B-16)Support a point of view on asocial studies issue




8.30.E (p.B-27)Support a point of view on asocial studies issue

116

Lesson 72 pages 265-273: Air We Breathe - Overview: Did you know that sometimes the air in our homes, schools, and offices can be worse for our healththan the air outside? In this activity, students will learn more about indoor air quality, and what can be done about it.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify various types of indoor air pollutants and their sources, (2) understand how various pollutants can beharmful to people’s health, (3) trace how radon can get into buildings and eventually into bodies and (4) take action to improve indoor air quality.PLT Skills: Define problems, Observe, Compare and Contrast, Determine causes and effects, Identify attributes and components, Analyze, Interpret,Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 72 6.13.A (p.B-15)Form and revise questions forinvestigations, including questions,arising from readings, assignments,and units of study


6.2.A (p.B-2)Plan and implement investigativeprocedures including askingquestions, formulating testablehypotheses, and selecting andusing equipment and technology




7.2.A (p.B-6)Plan and implement investigativeprocedures including askingquestions, formulating testablehypotheses, and selecting andusing equipment and technology




8.3.A (p.B-11)Analyze, review, and critiquescientific explanations, includinghypotheses and theories, as totheir strengths and weaknessesusing scientific evidence andinformation


117

Lesson 73 pages 274-279: Waste Watchers - Overview: Every year some 41 percent of all the energy we use in the United States is wasted needlessly. Bycutting energy waste, we can reduce our demand for sources of new energy and reduce the amount of pollution we create. In this activity, your students cantake a look at how they use energy in their own homes and how they can reduce the amount of energy they waste.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways to save energy in their daily lives and (2) explain how saving energy can reduce air pollution.PLT Skills : Observe, Solve problems, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 73 5.10.K (p.A-137)Answer different types and levels ofquestions such as open-ended, literal,and interpretative as well as test-likequestions such as multiple choice,true-false, and short-answer

5.3 (p.A-19)Add, subtract, multiply, and divideto solve meaningful problems




6.2 (p.B-2)Add, subtract, multiply, and divideto solve meaningful problems




7.2.F (p.B-6)Select and use appropriateoperations to solve problems andjustify the selections







118

Lesson 74 pages 280-281: People, Places, Things - Overview: By taking a closer look at their community, students can gain an appreciation for its structureand complexity. In this activity, students will develop a deeper understanding of the many people, places, and things on which they depend every day.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explain how human communities are made up of different types of people, places, and things, and how they all fittogether and (2) investigate some of the people, places, and things that make up their own community.PLT Skills: Observe, Discuss, Classify and Categorize, Summarize, Represent

GradeLevel

PLTLesson

Correlation/TEKS Language Arts Correlation/TEKS Mathematics Correlation/TEKS Science Correlation/TEKS SocialStudies

PreK-K

74 K.8.C (p.A-11)Identify words that name persons,places, or things and words that nameactions



K.7.A (p.A-3)Identify jobs in the home,school, and community

1 74 1.11.C (p.A-33)Identify words that name persons,places, or things and words that nameactions


1.9.B (p.A-6)Compare and give examples ofhow living organisms depend oneach other for their basic needs

1.9.A (p.A-7)Describe the requirements ofvarious jobs and thecharacteristics of a job well-performed



2.9.B (p.A-9)Compare and give examples of theways living organisms depend oneeach other and on theirenvironments

2.9.B (p.A-12)Explain the choices people inthe U.S. free enterprise systemcan make about earning,spending, and saving money,and where to live and work



3.8.D (p.A-12)Describe how living organismsmodify their physical environmentto meet their needs such as beaversbuilding a dam or humans buildinga home

3.11.B (p.A-18)Identify examples of actionsindividuals and groups can taketo improve the community

119

Lesson 75 pages 282-286; Tipi Talk - Overview: Whether it’s a 100-room palace or a small hut made of branches, all human shelters serve the same basicpurposes: they provide privacy, shelter from inclement weather, and protection from danger. In this activity, your students will take a close-up look at onekind of dwelling___the tipi used by the Native Americans on the Plains___and will discover how homes can give clues about the lives of people who live inthem.PLT Objectives: Students will describe several different types of Native American shelters and the materials that were used to make them.PLT Skills: Observe, Identify attributes and components, Infer, Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 75 4.10.H (p.A-107)Draw inferences such as conclusions orgeneralizations and support them withtext evidence and experience



4.1.A (p.A-21)Identify Native-American groupsin Texas and the WesternHemisphere before Europeanexploration and describe theregions in which they lived

5 75 5.10.H (p.A-136)Draw inferences such as conclusions orgeneralizations and support them withtext evidence and experience

5.11.A (p.A-21)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length (includingperimeter), weight, capacity,time, temperature, and area



6 75 6.10.H (p.B-12)Draw inferences such as conclusions orgeneralizations and support them withtext evidence and experience

6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference), area, time,temperature, capacity, and weight


6.4.D (p.B-3)Identify and explain thegeographic factions responsiblefor the location of economicactivities in places and regions




7.2.A (p.B-9)Compare the cultures of Native-Americans in Texas prior toEuropean colonization




8.11.B (p.B-21)Compare places and regions of theunited States in terms of physicaland human characteristics

120

Theme: Patterns of Change

Lesson 76 pages 289-292: Tree Cookies - Overview: One of the best ways to learn about a tree is to look at its annual rings. Tree rings show patterns ofchange in the tree’s life as well as changes in the area where it grows. In this activity, students will trace environmental and historical changes using a crosssection of a tree trunk, or “tree cookie.”PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify heartwood, sapwood, and a tree’s annual rings, (2) infer from a tree’s rings what damage or stress mighthave occurred in its life, and (3) make a timeline of human history that coincides with a tree’s rings.PLT Skills: Research, Observe, Identify relationships and patterns, Interpret information

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



1.1.A (p.A-5)Compare and order whole numbersup to 99 (less than, greater than, orequal to) using sets of concreteobjects and pictorial models

1.7.D (p.A-6)Observe and record changes in thelife cycle of organisms

1.18.B (p.A-9)Create visual and writtenmaterial including pictures,maps, timelines, and graphs


2.1 (p.A-8)Use concrete models to represent,compare, and order whole number(through 999), read the numbers,and record the comparisons usingnumbers and symbols(>,<,=)


2.18.B (p.A-14)Create written and visualmaterial such as stories, poems,maps, and graphic organizers toexpress ideas




3.17.B (p.A-20)Create written and visualmaterial such as stories, poems,maps, and graphic organizers toexpress ideas

4 76 4.13.F (p.A-110)Produce research projects and reports ineffective formats using visuals tosupport meaning, as appropriate


4.10.A (p.A-16)Identify and observe effects ofevents that require time forchanges to be noticeable includinggrowth, erosion, dissolving,weathering, and flow

4.23.D (p.A-28)Create written and visualmaterial such as journal entries,reports, graphic organizers,outlines, and bibliographies

5 76 5.13.F (p.A-140)Produce research projects and reports ineffective formats using visuals tosupport meaning, as appropriate


5.11.B (p.A-20)Draw conclusions about “whathappened before” using data suchas from tree-growth rings andsedimentary rock sequences

5.25.C (p.A-36)Organize and interpretinformation in outlines,reports, databases, and visualsincluding graphs, charts,timelines, and maps

121

Lesson 76 pages 289-292: Tree Cookies - Overview: One of the best ways to learn about a tree is to look at its annual rings. Tree rings show patterns ofchange in the tree’s life as well as changes in the area where it grows. In this activity, students will trace environmental and historical changes using a crosssection of a tree trunk, or “tree cookie.”PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify heartwood, sapwood, and a tree’s annual rings, (2) infer from a tree’s rings what damage or stress mighthave occurred in its life, and (3) make a timeline of human history that coincides with a tree’s rings.PLT Skills: Research, Observe, Identify relationships and patterns, Interpret information

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 76 6.13.F (p.B-16)Produce research projects and reports ineffective formats for various audiences



6.21.C (p.B-7)Organize and interpretinformation in outlines,reports, databases, and visualsincluding graphs, charts,timelines, and maps



7.2.C (p.B-6)Organize, analyze, makeinferences, and predict trends fromdirect and indirect evidence






122

Lesson 77 pages 293-298: Trees In Trouble - Overview: Like humans, trees can become weak and unhealthy, suffer injury, and die. People have learned toread the symptoms of unhealthy trees to help them. In this activity, students will examine trees for signs of damage or poor health.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) cite factors that can cause trees to become unhealthy, (2) describe symptoms of unhealthy trees, (3) compareenvironmental conditions that affect both human health and plant health, and (4) identify people or agencies that care for trees and forest.PLT Skills: Observe, Analyze, Research, Compare and contrast, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson








2.9.A (p.A-9)Identify the external characteristicsof different kinds of plants andanimals that allow their needs tobe met

2.17.B (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of visual sourcessuch as pictures, graphics,television, maps, computerimages, literature, referencesources, and artifacts

3 77 3.12.H (p.A-84)Demonstrate learning throughproductions and displays such as oraland written reports, murals, anddramatizations


3.8.C (p.A-12)Describe environmental changesin which some organisms wouldthrive, become ill, or perish

3.16.C (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, identifying cause and effect,and comparing/contrasting

4 77 4.13.F (p.A-110)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meaning, as appropriate




123

5 77 5.13.F (p.A-140)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meaning, as appropriate

5.11.A (p.A-21)Measure to solve problems(including perimeter), weight,capacity, time, temperature, andarea

5.9.A (p.A-20)Compare the adaptivecharacteristics of species thatimprove their ability to surviveand reproduce in an ecosystem


124

Lesson 77 pages 293-298: Trees In Trouble - Overview: Like humans, trees can become weak and unhealthy, suffer injury, and die. People have learned toread the symptoms of unhealthy trees to help them. In this activity, students will examine trees for signs of damage or poor health.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) cite factors that can cause trees to become unhealthy, (2) describe symptoms of unhealthy trees, (3) compareenvironmental conditions that affect both human health and plant health, and (4) identify people or agencies that care for trees and forest.PLT Skills: Observe, Analyze, Research, Compare and contrast, Solve problems

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 77 6.13.F (p.B-16)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meaning, as appropriate





7.9 (p.B-7)Estimate measurements and solveproblems involving length(including perimeter andcircumference), area, and volume







125

Lesson 78 pages 299-301: Signs Of Fall - Overview: In temperate regions, people can observe the annual change of the seasons. In autumn, leaves of manytrees turn color and fall to the ground, many animals migrate or go into hibernation, the days get shorter, and the air gets colder. This pattern repeats itselfevery year.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe some of the differences between deciduous and evergreen trees, (2) identify patterns in the changing ofseasons, and (3) understand why leaves of deciduous trees change color in the fall.PLT Skills: Observe, Identify relationships and patterns, Compare and contrast, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

78 K.16.B (p.A-15)Record and dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connections amongideas


K.7.C (p.A-3)Observe and record weather changesfrom day to day and over seasons


1 78 1.23.B (p.A-40)Record and dictate his/her ownknowledge of a topic in various wayssuch as by drawing pictures, makinglists, and showing connections amongideas


1.7.C (p.A-6)Observe and record changes inweather from day to day and overseasons




2.7.D (p.A-9)Observe, measure, and recordchanges in weather, the night sky,and seasons














126

Lesson 78 pages 299-301: Signs Of Fall - Overview: In temperate regions, people can observe the annual change of the seasons. In autumn, leaves of manytrees turn color and fall to the ground, many animals migrate or go into hibernation, the days get shorter, and the air gets colder. This pattern repeats itselfevery year.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe some of the differences between deciduous and evergreen trees, (2) identify patterns in the changing ofseasons, and (3) understand why leaves of deciduous trees change color in the fall.PLT Skills: Observe, Identify relationships and patterns, Compare and contrast, Infer

GradeLevel

PLTLesson






127

Lesson 79 pages 302-305: Tree Lifecycles - Overview: In this activity, students will discover that trees have a life cycle that is similar to that of other livingthings. They will investigate a tree’s role in the ecosystem at each stage of its life.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) diagram the lifecycle of tree, (2) compare a tree life cycle to a human life cycle, and (3) explain the role of eachstage of a tree’s life plays in the forest (or other) ecosystem.PLT Skills : Order and Arrange, Represent, Identify relationships and patterns

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K


K.10.A (p.A-3)Compare and order two or threeconcrete objects according to length(shorter or longer), capacity (holdsmore or holds less), or weight(lighter or heavier)

K.7.D (p.A-3)Observe and record stages in thelife cycle of organisms in theirnatural environment

K.15.A (p.A-4)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of oral sourcessuch as conversations,interviews, and music



1.7.D (p.A-6)Observe and record changes in thelife cycle of organisms

1.17.A (p.A-9)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of oral sourcessuch as conversations,interviews, and music




2.17.A (p.A-14)Obtain information about a topicusing a variety of oral sourcessuch as conversations,interviews, and music

3 79 3.12.G (p.A-84)Organize information in systematicways, including notes, charts, andlabels



3.16.E (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, identifying cause/effect, andcomparing/contrasting




4.22.C (p.A-27)Organize and interpretinformation in outlines, reports,databases, and visuals includinggraphs, charts, timelines, andmaps



5.6.C (p.A-19)Describe and compare life cycles ofplants and animals


128

Lesson 79 pages 302-305: Tree Lifecycles - Overview: In this activity, students will discover that trees have a life cycle that is similar to that of other livingthings. They will investigate a tree’s role in the ecosystem at each stage of its life.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) diagram the lifecycle of tree, (2) compare a tree life cycle to a human life cycle, and (3) explain the role of eachstage of a tree’s life plays in the forest (or other) ecosystem.PLT Skills : Order and Arrange, Represent, Identify relationships and patterns

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and us appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure andto solve problems involving length(including perimeter andcircumference), area, time,temperature, capacity, and weight


6.21.C (p.B-7)Organize and interpretinformation in outlines, reports,databases, and visuals includinggraphs, charts, timelines, andmaps

129

Lesson 80 pages 306-310: Nothing Succeeds Like Succession - Overview: Succession is a natural pattern of change that takes place over time in the forestor ecosystem. In this activity, students will study the connection between plants, animals, and successional stages in the local ecosystem.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) explore basic relationships between species diversity and ecosystem stability, (2) identify successional stages inecosystems based on plant and animal species, and (3) draw conclusions about the process of succession based on study test plots in different stagesof succession.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify and Categorize, Identify attributes and components, Identify relationships and patterns, Analyze, Interpret, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


3 80 3.9.F (p.A-81)Make and explain inferences fromtexts such as determining importantideas, causes, and effects, makingpredictions, and drawing conclusions

3.11.A (p.A-13)Estimate and measure lengths usingstandard units such as inch, foot,yard, centimeter, decimeter, andmeter


3.17.B (p.A-20)Create written and visualmaterial such as stories, poems,pictures, maps, and graphicorganizers to express ideas





5 80 5.10.E (p.A-136)Use the text’s structure or progressionof ideas such as cause and effort orchronology to locate and recallinformation


5.9.C (p.A-20)Predict some adaptivecharacteristics required for survivaland reproduction by an organismin an ecosystem


6 80 6.10.E (p.B-12)Use the text’s structure or progressionof ideas such as cause and effort orchronology to locate and recallinformation

6.8.B (p.B-3)Select and use appropriate units,tools, or formulas to measure and tosolve problems involving length(including perimeter andcircumference), area, time,temperature, capacity, and weight

6.11.A (p.B-4)Identify some changes in traits thatcan occur over several generationsthrough natural occurrence andselective breeding



7.9 (p.B-7)Estimate measurement and solveapplication problems involvinglength (including perimeter andcircumference), area, and volume

7.12.D (p.B-9)Observe and describe the role ofecological succession inecosystems


130


8.8.C (p.B-11)Estimate answers and use formulasto solve application problemsinvolving surface area and volume


8.30.C (p.B-27)Organize/interpret informationin outlines, reports, databases,and visuals including graphs,charts, timelines, and maps

131

Lesson 81 pages 311-315: Living With Fire - Overview: The term “forest fire” may conjure up images of fear and devastation. Preventing fires is stillimportant, but times have changed. In this activity, students will learn how fire is a natural event in forests, and other ecosystems and how it helps keep plantsand other parts of the ecosystem healthy.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe a forest fire; how it starts, spreads, and burns out and (2) explain several approaches to forest firemanagement.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify and Categorize, Analyze, Summarize

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K



K.1.B (p.A-2)Learn how to use and conserveresources and materials











3.14.A (p.A-14)Collect/organize/display data inpictographs and bar graphs whereeach cell might represent more thanone piece of data

3.1.B (p.A-10) Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources and thedisposal or recycling of materials






132


5.13.C (p.A-21)Graph a given set of data using anappropriate graphical representationsuch as picture or line



133

Lesson 81 pages 311-315: Living With Fire - Overview: The term “forest fire” may conjure up images of fear and devastation. Preventing fires is stillimportant, but times have changed. In this activity, students will learn how fire is a natural event in forests, and other ecosystems and how it helps keep plantsand other parts of the ecosystem healthy.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe a forest fire; how it starts, spreads, and burns out and (2) explain several approaches to forest firemanagement.PLT Skills: Observe, Classify and Categorize, Analyze, Summarize

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



6.10.C (p.B-3)Sketch circle graphs to display data











134

Lesson 82 pages 316-319: Resource-Go-Round - Overview: This activity gives students the opportunity to explore a variety of natural resources andproducts that people depend on every day. In addition, students will gain insight into the processes by which these natural resources are turned intoproducts and, when possible, recycled into new products.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify the natural resources from which products are derived, (2) trace the lifecycle of a product from naturalresources, to the raw materials, to the finished produce, and (3) describe how energy is consumed in the manufacturing and transportation ofproducts and how it might be conserved.PLT Skills: Observe, Research, Organize information, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



4.13 (p.A-17)Solve problems by collecting,organizing, displaying andinterpreting sets of data


4.14.B (p.A-25)Identify oil and gas, agricultural,and technological products ofTexas, the United States, and theworld




5.14.D (p.A-33)Describe the impact of massproduction, specialization, anddivision of labor on theeconomic growth of the UnitedStates



6.2.E (p.B-2)Construct graphs, tables, maps, andcharts using tools includingcomputers to organize, examine,and evaluate data

6.9.A (p.B-4)Describe ways in which factorsof productions (natural resources,labor, capital, and entrepreneurs)influence the economics ofselected contemporary societies




7.13.C (p.B-13)Analyze the impact of significantindustries in Texas such as oiland gas, aerospace, and medicaltechnology on local, national,and international markets




8.28.A (p.B-26)Explain the effects oftechnological and scientificinnovations such as thesteamboat, the cotton gin, andthe Bessemer steel process

135

Lesson 83 pages 320-321: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - Overview: Patterns for reducing solid waste can be seen in community efforts to reduce consumptionand recycle resources. In this activity, students will set up a program for reusing, recycling, and reducing consumption of resources at school.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) learn about ways to reduce solid waste in their community by reducing consumption, reusing products, recyclingmaterials, and composting and (2) communicate to others the importance of recycling in their community.PLT Skills: Reason, Classify and Categorize, Evaluate, Make decisions

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 83 4.22.A (p.A-117)Collaborate with other writers tocompose, organize, and revise varioustypes of texts, including letters,news, records, and forms




5 83 5.22.A (p.A-146)Collaborate with other writers tocompose, organize, and revise varioustypes of texts, including letters,news, records, and forms




6 83 6.21.A (p.B-22)Collaborate with other writers tocompose, organize, and revise varioustypes of texts, including letters,news, records, and forms












136

Lesson 84 pages 322-324: A Peek At Packaging - Overview: Nearly everything we buy comes in some sort of package. Packaging, made from a variety ofrenewable and nonrenewable resources, is necessary to protect an item, keep it fresh, make it tamper-proof, and make the item easy to transport and store.In this activity, students will examine the pros and cons of different packaging strategies.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the different purposes for packaging, (2) identify the pros and cons of different types of packaging, and(3) explore how packaging affects our decisions as consumers.PLT Skills : Observe, Classify and Categorize, Evaluate, Formulate questions, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 84 5.24.A (p.A-147)Interpret and evaluate the variousways visual image makers, such asgraphic artists, illustrators, and newsphotographers represent meaning

5.14.D (p.A-22)Use tools such as real objects,words, pictures, numbers, andtechnology



6 84 6.23.C (p.B-24)Evaluate the purposes and effects ofvarying media such as film, print,and technology presentations






7.3.B (p.B-7) Draw inferences based oninformation related to promotionalmaterials for products and services


137

Lesson 84 pages 322-324: A Peek At Packaging - Overview: Nearly everything we buy comes in some sort of package. Packaging, made from a variety ofrenewable and nonrenewable resources, is necessary to protect an item, keep it fresh, make it tamper-proof, and make the item easy to transport and store.In this activity, students will examine the pros and cons of different packaging strategies.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe the different purposes for packaging, (2) identify the pros and cons of different types of packaging, and(3) explore how packaging affects our decisions as consumers.PLT Skills : Observe, Classify and Categorize, Evaluate, Formulate questions, Analyze

GradeLevel

PLTLesson






138

Lesson 85 pages 325-327: Air To Drive - Overview: In this activity, students will calculate the amount of automobile travel their family does and exploresome of the potential environmental consequences of increasing automobile emissions and energy use, as well as ways and benefits of reducing those levels.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) gain knowledge about possible global changes resulting from the emission of greenhouse gases and otherpollutants, and (2) explain strategies for removing carbon dioxide from the air.PLT Skills: Comprehend, Analyze, Make decisions

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



5.3 (p.A-19)Add, subtract, multiply, and divideto solve meaningful problems


5.9.C (p.A-32)Analyze the consequences ofhuman modification of theenvironment in the UnitedStates, past and present


6.2 (p.B-2)Add, subtract, multiply, and divideto solve problems and justifysolutions




7.2.F (p.B-6)Select and use appropriateoperations to solve problems andjustify the selections


7.10.A (p.B-12)Identify ways in which Texanshave adapted to and modified theenvironment and analyze theconsequences of themodifications





139

Lesson 86 pages 328-330: Our Changing World - Overview: Patterns of change are evident in the Earth’s global systems. By exploring the issues ofglobal change, students will gain an understanding of how we must deal with the possibility of global environmental changes today.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify some global environmental patterns, (2) discuss issues related to global change, and (3) describe actionsthat people can take to improve the environment and quality of life.PLT Skills: Form concepts, Define problems, Formulate questions, Analyze, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 86 5.13.D (p.A-139)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, graphs,timelines, tables, or diagrams toaddress questions


5.5.A (p.A-19)Describe some cycles, structures,and processes that are found in asimple system

5.9.A (p.A-31)Describe ways people haveadapted to and modified theirenvironment in the UnitedStates, past and present

6 86 6.13.D (p.B-16)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, graphs,timelines, tables, or diagrams toaddress questions


6.14.C (p.B-5)Describe components of theatmosphere, including oxygen,nitrogen, and water vapor, andidentify the role of atmosphericmovement in weather change

6.3.A (p.B-2)Create thematic maps, graphs,charts, models, and databasesdepicting various aspects ofworld regions and countries suchas populations, disease, andeconomic activities


7.15 (p.B-9)Use logical reasoning to makeconjecture and verify conclusions

7.14.A (p.B-9)Describe and predict the impact ofdifferent catastrophic events on theEarth

7.9.C (p.B-12)Analyze the effects of physicaland human factors such asclimate, weather, landforms,irrigation, transportation, andcommunication on major eventsin Texas




8.11.B (p.B-21)Compare places and regions ofthe United States in terms ofphysical and humancharacteristics

140

Lesson 87 pages 331-334: Earth Manners - Overview: Children are naturally curious about their environment. They should be encouraged to explore theout-of-doors, while having respect for living things and their habitats. In this activity students will develop a set of guidelines for exploring and enjoyingnature.PLT Objectives: Students will express appropriate ways to treat living things and to act in forests, parks, and other natural areas.PLT Skills: Discuss, Form principles

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K

87 K.1.E (p.A-6)Listen responsively to stories andother texts read aloud, includingselections from classic andcontemporary works


K.1.B (p.A-2)Lean how to use and conserveresources and materials

K.8.B (p.A-3)Identify rules that provide order,security, and safety in the homeand school

1 87 1.1.E (p.A-25)Listen responsively to stories andother texts read aloud, includingselections from classic andcontemporary works


1.1.B (p.A-5)Lean how to use and conserveresources and materials

1.10.A (p.A-7)Explain the need for rules andlaws in the home, school, andcommunity

2 87 2.1.E (p.A-50)Listen responsively to stories andother texts read aloud, includingselections from classic andcontemporary works



2.13.A (p.A-13)Identify characteristics of goodcitizenship such as the belief injustice, truth, equality, andresponsibility for the commongood

3 87 3.9.F (p.A-81)Make and explain inferences fromtexts such as determining importantideas, causes and effects, makingpredictions, and drawing conclusions



3.10.A (p.A-18)Identify characteristics of goodcitizenship such as a belief injustice, truth, equality, andresponsibility for the commongood





141

Lesson 88 pages 335-339: Life On The Edge - Overview: Patterns of change can be observed in the diversity of species on Earth. In this activity, studentswill become advocates for endangered species of plants or animals, and create “public relations campaigns” on behalf of these species.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify environmental factors that can cause species to become endangered, (2) research the current status ofseveral endangered plants or animals, and (3) present persuasive arguments for the protection of a particular plant or animal species.PLT Skills: Research, Analyze, Synthesize and Create

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



4.13 (p.A-17)Solve problems by collecting,organizing, displaying andinterpreting sets of data




5.13 (p.A-21)Solve problems by collecting,organizing, and displaying, andinterpreting sets of data



6 88 6.15.F (p.B-17)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, presentations,narratives, reports, and instructions



6.22.D (p.B-8)Create written and visualmaterial such as journal entries,reports, graphic organizers,outlines, and bibliographies

7 88 7.15.F (p.B-45)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, memoirs, narratives,reports, and instructions

7.11.A (p.B-8)Select and us an appropriaterepresentation for presentingcollected data and justify theselection



8 88 8.15.F (p.B-67)Choose the appropriate form forhis/her own purpose for writing,including journals, letters, editorials,reviews, poems, memoirs, narratives,reports, and instructions




142

Lesson 89 pages 340-342: Trees For Many Reasons - Overview: By reading fables such as The Lorax by Dr. Seuss or The Man Who Planted Trees by JeanGiono, students can examine the importance of conserving natural resources.PLT Objectives: Students will discuss and analyze a fictional story relating to the proper and improper use of natural resources.PLT Skills: Discuss, Form Concepts, Evaluate, Compare and Contrast, Identify main ideas

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


2 89 2.10.C (p.A-57)Support interpretations or conclusionswith examples drawn from text




3 89 3.10.C (p.A-82)Support interpretations or conclusionswith examples drawn from text

3.17.B (p.A-14)Interpret information frompictographs and bar graphs


3.16.C (p.A-19)Interpret oral, visual, and printmaterial by identifying the mainidea, identifying cause and effect,and comparing and contrasting

4 89 4.11.A (p.A-108)Offer observations, make connections,react, speculate, interpret, and raisequestions in response to texts




5 89 5.11.A (p.A-137)Offer observations, make connections,react, speculate, interpret, and raisequestions in response to texts




143

Lesson 89 pages 340-342: Trees For Many Reasons - Overview: By reading fables such as The Lorax by Dr. Seuss or The Man Who Planted Trees by JeanGiono, students can examine the importance of conserving natural resources.PLT Objectives: Students will discuss and analyze a fictional story relating to the proper and improper use of natural resources.PLT Skills: Discuss, Form Concepts, Evaluate, Compare and Contrast, Identify main ideas

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 89 6.11.A (p.B-13)Offer observations, make connections,react, speculate, interpret, and raisequestions in response to texts












144

Lesson 90 pages 343-348: The Native Way - Overview: Patterns of change can be observed in human uses of natural resources. In this activity, studentswill explore some traditional Native American attitudes and lifestyles with respect to the land and its resources and will compare those attitudes with theirown.PLT Objectives: Students will describe traditional Native American lifestyles and Native American’s use of natural resources and the land.PLT Skills: Identify relationships and patterns, Identify attributes and components, Interpret, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 90 4.10.I (p.A-107)Find similarities and differences acrosstexts such as in treatment, scope, ororganization


4.1.B(p.A-14)Make wise choices in the use andconservation of resources and thedisposal or recycling of materials


5 90 5.10.I (p.A-137)Find similarities and differences acrosstexts such as in treatment, scope, ororganization




6 90 6.10.I (p.B-13)Find similarities and differences acrosstexts such as in treatment, scope, ororganization







7.21.G (p.B-16)Evaluate the validity of a sourcebased on language, corroborationwith other sources, andinformation about the author




8.30.G (p.B-27)Evaluate the validity of a sourcebased on language, corroborationwith other sources, andinformation about the author

145

Lesson 91 pages 349-352: In The Good Old Days - Overview - Human attitudes and values, and therefore behavior, with regard to the environment canchange over the course of generations. In this activity, students will study the writings of men and women who have shaped the way people think about theenvironment.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) describe important events in the history of conservation, (2) explain how environmental problems and perceptionsof environmental quality have changed through history, and (3) express the point of view of a famous figure in the history of conservation.PLT Skills: Research, Interpret, Identify main ideas, Compose

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


4 91 4.12.J (p.A-109)Describe how the author’s perspectiveor point of view affects the text


4.3.E (p.A-15)Connect Grade 4 science conceptswith the history of science andcontributions of scientists

4.23.D (p.A-28)Create written and visualmaterials such as journal entries,reports, graphic organizers,outlines, and bibliographies

5 91 5.12.J (p.A-139)Describe how the author’s perspectiveor point of view affects the text


5.3.E (p.A-18)Connect Grade 5 science conceptswith the history of science andcontributions of scientists

5.26.D (p.A-36)Create written and visualmaterials such as journal entries,reports, graphic organizers,outlines, and bibliographies

6 91 6.12.H (p.B-15)Describe how the author’s perspectiveor point of view affects the text


6.3.E (p.B-2)Connect Grade 6 science conceptswith the history of science andcontributions of scientists

6.22.D (p.B-8)Create written and visualmaterials such as journal entries,reports, graphic organizers,outlines, and bibliographies



7.3.F (p.B-7)Connect Grade 7 science conceptswith the history of science andcontributions of scientists




8.3.E (p.B-11)Connect Grade 8 science conceptswith the history of science andcontributions of scientists


146

Lesson 92 pages 353-358: A Look At Lifestyles - Overview: By examining the historical attitudes of Native Americans and American pioneers toward theenvironment and natural resources, students can reflect on their own lifestyles, and identify trade-offs between simple subsistence and the moderntechnology-based living.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) analyze a Native American legend and traditional native America attitudes toward using the land, (2) identifysome of the values of the early American pioneers, and (3) create a chart comparing our own environmental beliefs and behaviors with those oftraditional Native Americans and early pioneers.PLT Skills: Research, Organize information, Reason, Analyze, Compare and Contrast, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 92 5.13.F (p.A-140)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meaning as appropriate




6 92 6.13.F (p.B-16)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats for variousaudiences












147

Lesson 93 pages 359-361: Paper Civilization - Overview: Humans have always had a strong need to record the events of their lives. From cave painting towriting paper, humans have preserved their history in many ways. In this activity, students will discover how the development of paper revolutionized theway people communicate and record information.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) chronicle the major events in the history of papermaking and (2) create a pictorial representation of the history ofpaper.PLT Skills: Order and Arrange, Identify attributes and components, Identify main ideas, Make decisions, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson



4.15.A (p,.A-18)Explain and record observationsusing objects, words, pictures,numbers, and technology


4.21.B (p.A-27)Describe how scientific discoveriesand technological innovations havebenefited individuals, businesses,and society in Texas



5.2.E (p.A-18)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts using toolsincluding computers to organize,examine, and evaluateinformation

5.24.C (p.a-35)Explain how scientific discoveriesand technological innovations suchas the transcontinental railroad, thediscovery of oil, and the rapidgrowth of technology industrieshave advanced the economicdevelopment of the United States




6.20.A (p.B-7)Give examples of scientificdiscoveries and technologicalinnovations, including the roles ofscientists and inventors, that havetranscended the boundaries ofsocieties and have shaped the world


7.14.B (p.B-9)Evaluate the effectiveness ofdifferent representation tocommunicate ideas


7.20.A (p.B-15)Compare types and uses oftechnology, past and present




8.29.A (p.B-26)Compare the effects of scientificdiscoveries and technologicalinnovations that have influenceddaily life in different periods inU.S. history

148

Lesson 94 pages 362-365: Where Are The Cedars Of Lebanon? - Overview: Throughout history, people have depended on natural resources for survival.The availability of food, water, and resources to build shelters has generally determined where humans have settled and how cultures evolved over time. Inthis activity, students will explore how ancient civilizations developed systems for using their natural resources.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) investigate how ancient civilizations used natural resources and affected the environment and (2) applyenvironmental lessons learned in the past toward solving current environmental problems.PLT Skills : Research, Analyze, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


6 94 6.5.F (p.B-8)Clarify and support spoken ideas withevidence, elaborations, and examples





7.13.B (p.b-8)Use a problem-solving model thatincorporates understanding theproblem, making a plan, carryingout the plan, and evaluating thesolution for reasonableness


7.21.E (p.B-16)Support a point of view on a socialstudies issue or event




8.30.E (p.B-27)Support a point of view on a socialstudies issue or event

149

Lesson 95 pages 366-368: Did You Notice? - Overview: In this activity, students will study changes in their local environment over short and long periodsand will identify patterns of change.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify changes in their local environment over the course of time, and (2) create a timeline to illustrate patternsof change over time.PLT Skills: Research, Compare and Contrast, Identify relationships and patterns, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


PreK-K


K.11.C (p.A-3)Sequence events

K.5.B (p.A-2)Observe and identify patternsincluding seasons, growth, andday and night and predict whathappens next

K.3.A (p.A-2)Place events in chronological order

1 95 1.18.B (p.A-38)Write labels, notes, and captions forillustrations, possessions, charts, andcenters

1.8 (p.A-6)Understand that time andtemperature can be measured

1.7.C (p.A-6)Observe and record changes inweather from day to day and overseasons

1.3.B (p.A-6)Create a calendar or timeline

2 95 2.12.E (p.A-59)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, charts,graphs, and diagrams

2.9 (p.A-10)Use standard tools to measure timeand temperature

2.7.D (p.A-9)Observe, measure, and recordchanges in weather, the nightsky, and seasons

2.2.B (p.A-11)Use vocabulary related tochronology, including past,present, and future

3 95 3.12.E (p.A-84)Interpret and use graphic sources ofinformation such as maps, charts,graphs, and diagrams

3.12 (p.A-13)Measure time and temperature

3.2.E (p.A-11)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine and evaluateinformation

3.3.B (p.A-16)Create and interpret timelines


4,12 (p.A-17)Measure to solve problemsinvolving length, includingperimeter, time, temperatue, andarea

4.2.E (p.A-14)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts to organize,examine and evaluateinformation




5.2.E (p.A-18)Construct simple graphs, tables,maps, and charts using toolsincluding computers to organize,examine and evaluateinformation



6.10.D (p.B-3)Solve problems by collecting,organizing, displaying, andinterpreting

6.2.E (p.B-2)Construct graphs, tables, maps,and charts using tools includingcomputers to organize, examineand evaluate data


150

Lesson 95 pages 366-368: Did You Notice? - Overview: In this activity, students will study changes in their local environment over short and long periodsand will identify patterns of change.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify changes in their local environment over the course of time, and (2) create a timeline to illustrate patternsof change over time.PLT Skills: Research, Compare and Contrast, Identify relationships and patterns, Conclude

GradeLevel

PLTLesson










151

Lesson 96 pages 369-370: Improve your Place - Overview: Each living thing has a habitat__a place to live that suits its needs. For human beings, thecommunity they live in is their habitat. In this activity, students are encouraged to take action to improve their community by making some positiveenvironmental changes.PLT Objectives: Students will (1) identify ways they can improve their local area, and (2) carry out plans to improve the area.PLT Skills: Define problems, Solve problems, Evaluate

GradeLevel

PLTLesson


5 96 5.13.F (p.A-140)Produce research projects and reportsin effective formats using visuals tosupport meaning as appropriate
















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