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Penguin Research Challenge
Introduction: Penguins are positively
fascinating creatures! This year, the Glen
Oak Zoo in Peoria, Illinois wants to purchase some new penguins for
their arctic exhibit.
Task: The zookeepers have asked our class to help them make a choice between four different kinds of penguins. They can choose only one species to add to the zoo... so our recommendation is of great importance!
Process:
Each team of scientific
researchers will be charged with the mission of investigating one
species of penguins. The groups will then present their findings
to an audience of judges. Next, the judges will vote on which type of
penguin to recommend for the Glen Oak Zoo arctic exhibit. Let's work together
to complete our mission!
Activity #1: Penguin Research
· You and your team must find out as much information as you can to help the zookeepers make a good decision. Your group will receive a research folder. First, your team will assign the following roles:
Information Coordinator: responsible for the team folder and its contents, sharing information, reading aloud to the rest of the group
Data Recorder: responsible for writing down important facts during the research process
Techie: responsible for computer operations
Time Keeper: responsible for keeping the group focused and on task
· Next, locate the fishbone diagram on the supply table. Fill in these 4 main headings on the diagram: habitat, food, lifespan/reproduction, other facts
· The following are some questions to consider as you research:
1. Where does
this kind of penguin live? Is it usually
warm or cold in this place?
2. How big will this kind of penguin grow?
3. What does this penguin like to eat?
4. How many eggs does a mother hatch each year?
5. How long can this kind of penguin live?
6. What are some
interesting things that this penguin can do?
(Remember, zoo visitors love to watch the penguins do neat stuff!)
· Now click on the link below to conduct your research. Use your fishbone diagram to record your findings.
Activity #2: Analyze the Data
·
In your folder you will
find an envelope with penguin stickers.
Give each team member 8 stickers.
After reviewing your research findings, decide on 8 facts that you feel are most important to share with
our panel of judges. Place one penguin sticker next to the eight facts that you
feel are important. Each person should
vote individually.
· After all your team members have placed their stickers on the fishbone, your group will tally the stickers to determine the TOP 8 facts to be shared in your presentation.
Activity #3: Prepare your Presentation
· Your team will now take your 8 most important facts and prepare them in presentation form.
· Your teachers will help you to create a penguin presentation poster…
· With an overhead and a transparency, project an outline of your team’s penguin onto white butcher block paper. Now use a thick marker to trace the image onto the white paper.
· Cut out the outline of your penguin poster.
· In a creative and interesting way (artistic freedom!) record your 8 important facts onto the penguin poster. Your team may decorate the poster… be sure to work as a team!
·
Now decide how you will share your facts with the
audience. Each team member should participate in some way. Use your creativity and have fun with it!
· Let your teachers know if we can provide any additional supplies or equipment to assist with your presentation. (i.e. portable kareokee,etc)
Conclusion: This is what
we’ve been preparing for… it’s time to present to our panel of judges! Each
team will share their presentations. The audience will then cast their ballot for the species they
feel will make the best addition to the Glen Oak Zoo. We’ll tally the votes and determine the winner. GOOD LUCK and
congratulations for all of your hard work and preparation. Thank you for sharing in this exciting
project!
Evaluation: Each student will
complete a self-evaluation form (found in your team folder).
· Take time to consider how you worked with your team… Did you participate and contribute to the team effort? Were you a good listener? Are there teaming skills that you hope to improve in yourself?
· Return the form to your teachers when completed.
Just for fun… enjoy some of these penguin sites!
Penguin Cam--
see live pictures of these zoo penguins!
See if you can answer these Penguin Quiz
questions!
How cute! Watch the Penguin
Dance!
Try this Penguin
Word Search