Description

In this Beacon Unit Plan, students begin to understand who they are by first analyzing their genetics, and second, by taking a closer look into their cells and how these cells interact within the body. The students are formatively assessed throughout the unit in order to guide instruction and assess student understanding of the material. Finally, the students create a “What Makes Me Who I Am” picture book in which they explain to younger children the information they have discovered which makes them who they are. Created picture books are then shared with other students from lower grades.

Duration

The planned duration of this activity is 19 days.

Lesson Plans

Decidedly Different
In this first lesson of the Unit Plan, What Makes Me Who I Am, students study why scientists need to use observable characteristics, how they sort the characteristics, and why they do so. Journal entries allow students to reflect and make inferences.

Wiggle, Peak, and Roll
This is the second lesson of the fourth day of the Unit Plan: What Makes Me Who I Am? In this lesson, students learn that characteristics are inherited.

Take A Splash into the Gene Pool
This is the third lesson and fifth day of the Unit, What Makes Me Who I Am? Students further explore inherited characteristics by conducting a simulated experiment where they create a person using simple genetic coding.

Interaction Actions
This is the fourth lesson on the sixth day of the Unit, What Makes Me Who I Am? In this lesson, students work in cooperative groups to brainstorm characteristics that are the result of interaction with the environment.

Organizing Organs
This is the fifth lesson for days 9-12 in the Unit Plan, What Makes Me Who I Am? Students examine the parts of a cell. They compare and contrast plant cells to animal cells. They understand how cells are organized to form structures (tissues, organs.)

Body Systems in Action
This is the last lesson, days 13-16, of the Unit Plan, What Makes Me Who I Am? Students research the body systems. Cooperative groups create and present a short skit demonstrating how systems work together.