Teaching Notes

Guiding question

Learning targets

Teaching Notes

How this stage of this Lab builds on previous stage(s):

Students continue to learn about paleontology by using the tools of a paleontologist in a simulated dig. Students may continue this Lab in the same way they have been during the Launch and Practice stages: working with the tools of paleontologists to uncover "treasures" within a teacher-created simulated dig site.

What is new about this stage of this Lab:

During the Extend stage of the Explore Lab, students may have the option to create their own simulated paleontological dig, using the same or similar materials used to create the simulated dig of the Launch and Practice stages. This option is provided as a possible extension of students' experience in the Explore Lab thus far but is contingent upon the availability of time, resources, and supervision.

Habits of character:

Regardless of whether students are creating their own dig site or continuing to use a teacher-created dig site, they will need to show responsibility and respect in the use and care of various tools and materials.

Logistics:

On the first day, the teacher introduces the task, the materials, and the expectations to help students make the transition to the Extend stage of the Labs.
During the remaining days of the Extend stage, students divide into Lab groups and spend 20 minutes each in two Labs.

In advance:

If students are continuing to use a teacher-created simulated dig, prepare the Explore Lab by:
Placing one or more simulated dig sites in the Lab space. (If each Lab group has its own dig, place the appropriate dig(s) for that day.)
Placing the tools of a paleontologist in the Lab space (see materials list).
Creating supportive partnerships within Lab groups (optional).
If students will be creating their own simulated digs, prepare the Explore Lab by:
Covering the Explore Lab area with paper or plastic.
Providing separate buckets of sand, plaster, and water to create the mixture.
Inviting students to collect or bring in (disposable) objects to use as their "treasures."
Collecting (disposable) plastic or paper containers (e.g., shoe boxes) in which to create the simulated dig.

Materials

Additional materials (to be used if students are creating their own simulated digs):

Explore Lab