GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: GRADES K-5 - … · 2011-10-14 · GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: GRADES K-5 Enclosed are additional Gifted and Talented instructional modules for grades

GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE:

GRADES K-5

Enclosed are additional Gifted and Talented instructional modules for grades kindergarten through grade five. The modules expand the existing collection of enrichment opportunities during the school year.

Adopted by the Somerville Board of Education on September 28, 2010

Gifted and Talented Program

Van Derveer Elementary School: Grades K-5

Implementation Guidelines

In order to fulfill state guidelines regarding the enrichment of pupils identified as gifted and talented and to further address the specific interests and talents of all pupils in kindergarten through grade 5, Gifted and Talented modules of study aligned to the existing curriculum in all areas of concentration have been created and adopted by the Somerville Board of Education. One module per marking period is now available for use by classroom teachers and one additional module per marking period will be created yearly. These modules will be catalogued to be available for use by all classroom teachers. The modules will be implemented as follows:

Identified pupils will be engaged in the higher-level enrichment activities: Gifted and Talented modules of study.

A minimum of one module per marking period will be presented to pupils for their enrichment. More modules may be implemented at teacher discretion.

All pupils will be presented with the opportunity to complete one (or more) of the suggested activities.

Participation by all pupils is voluntary and no punitive measures may be applied for lack of participation.

Work on the activities may take place during class, before or after school, or at home.

Individual grade-level teachers may determine if and how the module activities will be assessed.

Office of Curriculum, Instruction, and Technology

GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: KINDERGARTEN

Content: Health Month: September

Essential Question:

How do germs affect our bodies?

Instructional Objective:

Determine the effect of germs on our bodies and our health.

New Jersey 2009 Core Curriculum Content Standards:

1.3.2.D.1-2, 1.3.2.D.4-5, 2.1.2.A.1, 2.1.2.C.2, 2.1.4.C.2, RI-K.1-9, WK.1-2, WK.8

Sample Differentiated Activities:

1. Draw a picture of a good health habit that helps fight against harmful germs. 2. Compile a list of the health problems that are caused by harmful germs. 3. Design a poster that illustrates how germs affect a particular part of your body. 4. Create an illustrated alphabet book of the effects of germs and good health practices to combat those

bad effects. 5. Design a plan for eliminating harmful germs in the classroom and share with your classmates.

Cross-Curricular Connections:

English Language Arts, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Mathematics Month: October

Essential Question:

How can patterning be used to solve real-world problems?


Identify and apply patterns.

New Jersey Core Curriculum Content Standards:

1.3.2.D.1-2, 5.1.4.A.1-2, 5.1.5.B.1, 5.1.5.B.4; 5.1.4.C.2, RI-K.1-10, WK.1-10


1. Identify patterns around the classroom. Use a variety of manipulatives to create your own pattern. 2. Design a gift for someone special using a pattern of your choice with arts and crafts materials. 3. Find as many patterns in nature as you can during an outdoor walk. 4. Design and illustrate a dream room for your house using a variety of patterns in any two- or three-

dimensional form. 5. Select a song and repeat the musical patterns you hear. Compose a new song using the same patterns.


English Language Arts, Science, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Science Month: December

Essential Question:

How can we use our senses to make good observations?


Assess the value of the five senses.


1.3.2.D.1-5, 5.1.4.D.1, 5.2.2.A.1, WK.1-2, WK.8


1. Illustrate the observations you make using at least one of your five senses. 2. Survey the class to determine what sense your classmates use most often and report your findings. 3. Create a display of objects that appeal to each of the five senses. 4. Compare and contrast the objects, scents, sights, sounds, or textures that are most and least appealing to

your senses. 5. Imagine you have the use of only one of your senses. Describe which sense you value most and why.





Content: Science Month: January

Essential Question:

How do animals living in different environments adapt to climate changes?


Identify how animals living in Arctic and Antarctic environments adapt to climate change.


1.3.2.D.1-2, 5.3.2.A, 6.1.4.B.3-4, 6.1.4.B.6, RI-K.1-10, WK.1-10


1. Match pictures of animals to the Arctic or Antarctic habitat in which they live and identify the locations on a globe.

2. Create an Arctic and/or an Antarctic book of animal facts. Include pictures and a two to three sentence sequential story about the animals in their habitats.

3. Construct a habitat illustrating animals and the characteristics of the habitat in which they live. 4. Rewrite the lyrics to your favorite song to describe an animal and the habitat in which the animal lives. 5. Design a puppet show, including Arctic or Antarctic scenery and animal habitats. Design puppets of

animals that live in the Arctic and Antarctic habitats. Have the puppet animals debate and defend the benefits of living in the Arctic or Antarctic environments.


English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Music Month: March

Essential Question:

What ways does music enrich special occasions?


Explore the ways that music helps us to celebrate our lives.


1.2.5.A.1, 1.3.2.D.1-2, 1.3.2.D.4, 1.4.5.A.3, 6.1.4.D.13, 6.1.4.D.17, 6.1.4.D.20, 9.1.4.D.3, WK.1-2, WK.8


1. Illustrate a scene from a song that makes you remember a special time or experience. 2. Compose your own lyrics to a favorite melody to use on a special occasion like a birthday, holiday, or

school event. 3. Create a diorama of a family activity that involves music. 4. Teach the class a song that represents your cultural heritage. 5. Conduct an interview with a family member, such as your grandparent, aunt, or cousin, to find out what

song represents a special memory for him or her.


English Language Arts, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Science Month: April

Essential Question:

How do I take care of my Earth?


Assess ways to care for the earth.


1.3.1.D.1-2, 2.2.2.D.1, 2.2.6.D.2, 5.1.4.A.1-2, 5.4.2.G.2, 6.3.4.A.2-3, 9.1.4.A.1-2, 9.1.4.A.5, 9.1.4.B.1, 9.1.4.C.1, RI-K.1-10, WK.1-10


1. Sort magazine or newspaper pictures of recyclable materials and categorize by glass, paper, or plastic. 2. Identify and illustrate earth-friendly practices visually (e.g., poster, diorama, web, drawing). 3. Assess issues that could be improved through earth-friendly practices. Compile and present a list of the

issues using a variety of visual aids. 4. Create a poster to persuade others to change their habits in order to be "green." Include a slogan and

illustrations. 5. Identify an environmental problem in Somerville. Select a person such as, the principal of the school,

the mayor, or a town council member who you think can help solve the problem. Tell the class what you think the person you selected can do to help and why. Write a persuasive letter convincing the person to help solve the problem.


English Language Arts, Science, Social Studies, Health and Physical Education, Character Education, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual Arts,



Content: English Language Arts Month: April

Essential Question:

How do rhyming words enrich our use of language?


Increase awareness and understanding of the use of rhyming words.


1.3.2.D.1-2, 3.3.1.A.2-3, 3.3.1.D.1, 3.4.1.A.2, 8.1.2.B.1, 9.1.4.A.1, 9.1.4.A.3, WK.1-2, WK.8


1. Illustrate the rhyming words in a favorite poem. You may use images that you find using technology, in magazines, or draw your own pictures.

2. List all the rhyming words you find during an ordinary day (e.g., blue shoe, black backpack). 3. Produce a word family book of rhyming words. 4. Dramatize your favorite rhyming poem. You may use visual aids if you wish. 5. Create a rhyming match game using pictures and words and play it with your classmates.


Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Essential Question:

What are the characteristics of the seasons: summer, spring, fall, winter?


Explore the characteristics of the seasons in Somerville, New Jersey.


1.3.2.D.1-2, 5.1.4.A.1-3, 5.1.4.B.1-4, 8.1.2.A.4-5, 9.1.4.A.105, RI-K.1-10, WK.1-10


1. Draw a picture showing what a tree looks like during each season. 2. Use pictures and describing words to show each season. 3. Write a sentence or sentences describing each season. Draw a picture if you would like. 4. Using a graphic organizer, compare and contrast the similarities and differences among the seasons. 5. Select a characteristic of a season, such as temperature, rainfall, or length of day. Collect daily

information using the Van Derveer Weather Station, newspaper, Internet, or television. Organize the information in a chart and create a graphic display. What pattern do you notice?


English Language Arts, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts

Content: Science Month: June



Content: Technology Month: May

Essential Question:

What symbols represent the spirit of America?


Apply technology to investigate American symbols.


1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.A.14, 8.1.12.A.4-5, 9.1.4.A.2-3, 9.1.4.A.5, RI.1.1-10, W.1.2, W.1.5-8


1. Utilize a kid-friendly search engine to locate and print a picture of an American symbol. 2. Employ a drawing program such as, Microsoft paint or Kidpicks, to produce an illustration of your

favorite American symbol. 3. Produce and print a typed list of American symbols you know. Include capital letters and different

colors and text styles. 4. Create your own personal symbol that represents America to you using technology. 5. Research American symbols on a kid-friendly website such as, Ben’s Guide to US Government, and

report your findings to your classmates.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts


GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: GRADE 1

Content: Science Month: October

Essential Question:

In what way do animals adapt to their environments?


Distinguish the characteristics of animal habitats of the deserts, grasslands, forests, and oceans.


1.3.2.D.1, 1.3.2.D.4, 5.3.2.C.1-3, 8.1.2.A.4, 8.2.2.A.1, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI-1.1-10, W1.1-10


1. Match animals to the correct habitats in which they live. Use animal pictures, habitat backgrounds, and Kidspiration.

2. Create a mini-book of the animal habitats (deserts, grasslands, forests, and oceans). Include descriptive sentences about each habitat and the characteristics needed to support life.

3. Create "Who am I" riddles to describe an animal and the habitat in which the animal lives. 4. Compare and contrast two animals that live in different habitats. Include the environmental needs of the

animals and their adaptations to the habitats. In a puppet skit, pretend to be one of these animals and talk to each other about what you need to live.

5. Design and construct a three-dimensional model of a habitat in which you would like to live. Remember to include the characteristics your habitat needs to support your survival and the survival of your family.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Social Studies Month: December

Essential Question:

What makes heroes important?


Investigate the qualities and contributions of American heroes.


1.3.2.D.1, 1.3.2.D.4, 6.1.4.A.1, 6.1.C.12, 6.1.4.D.11, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI-1.1-10, W1.1-10


1. Illustrate and write a description of a local hero and his/her contribution to the community. 2. Create an alphabet book, including illustrations and a sentence for each letter of the qualities possessed

by a hero. 3. Incorporate what you have learned about an American hero in a poem, song, or story. 4. Compare and contrast the lives and contributions of two American heroes and present your findings. 5. Interview your personal hero and dramatize his/her contributions to your life.


English Language Arts, Character Education, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts,



Content: Social Studies Month: October

Essential Question:

What tools help us to navigate around our community and state?


Apply map skills to a study of the community and state.


1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.B.1-3, RI.1.1-10, W.1.2, W.1.7-8


1. Draw a map of a room in your house and label and place appropriate objects within the room. 2. Create a model of a community and the map that coordinates with that model. 3. Locate your home, school, and other important community sites on a map of your community. 4. Illustrate the state of New Jersey in a two- or three-dimensional design. 5. Design a map game and the questions a player would answer to win.





Content: Health Month: March

Essential Question:

What are the qualities of a good friend?


Identify the characteristics and behaviors of a good friend.


1.3.2.D.1, 2.1.4.A.1, 2.1.4.C.3, 2.1.2.E.1, 2.2.4.A.1-2, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI-1.1-10, W1.1-10


1. Illustrate the qualities of a good friend in a collage or other graphic form. 2. Brainstorm ways to avoid hurting other people's feelings and present your ideas. 3. Create a "recipe for friendship", including the ingredients of a good friend. 4. Dramatize a problem that you have experienced with a friend and include the solution to the problem. 5. Interview a parent, teacher, or any adult of your choice about the importance of maintaining life-long

friendships and present your findings.





Content: Science Month: January

Essential Question:

What knowledge is necessary to understand the solar system?


Compare and contrast standard and dwarf planets.


1.3.2.C.1, 1.3.2.D.1, 5.1.4.B.1-4, 5.4.4.A.4, 5.4.6.A.4, 9.1.4.A.2-3, 9.1.4.A.5, RI.1.1-10, W.1.2, W.1.5-6, W.1.8


1. Find and use pictures of all of the planets in the solar system and sort them into two categories: standard and dwarf. Explain your choices.

2. Employ a graphic organizer of your choice to identify the characteristics of each category of planets and report to the class.

3. Compare and contrast the major characteristics of the solar system objects, including size and scale in a model of your choice. You may use technology if you wish.

4. Create your own planet. Name your planet, provide a visual representation of your planet, and describe what makes it a standard or dwarf planet.

5. Interview Pluto the Planet to find out Pluto’s reaction to being eliminated from planet status.





Content: Social Studies Month: April

Essential Question:

How do timelines communicate historical events?


Document, illustrate, and interpret personal and/or historical events using timelines.


1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.A.9-10, 6.1.4.C.12-13, 6.1.4.C.16, 6.1.4.D.11-12, 8.1.4.A.2-5, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI-1.1-10, W1.1-10


1. Draw and label a picture of memorable events in your own life such as, your first birthday, a family vacation, or losing a first tooth.

2. Interview an older person like a parent or grandparent. Ask the person to tell you about his or her childhood. Create a timeline showing the important events the person shared.

3. Read a book about an historical event or person. Construct a "chain of events" using pipe cleaners, string, technology (Kidspiration), and/or other materials to connect the events in sequential order.

4. Create a timeline ordering historical events contributing to life as we know it. 5. Compare and contrast the lives of two historical figures you studied in class. Capture the similarities

and differences in a timeline, a diorama, a Kidspiration presentation, or a bulletin board display.


English Language Arts, Mathematics, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: World Language Month: January

Essential Question:

In what ways does a language other than English appear in everyday life?


To recognize the value of knowing a second language in the United States.


1.3.2.D.2, 1.3.2.D.5, 6.1.4.A.14, 6.1.4.D.11, 6.1.4.D.20, 7.1.NM.C.1-5, 9.1.4.D.3, 9.1.12.D.3, RI.1.1-10, W.1.2, W.1.5, W.1.8


1. Make a list of all the words you know in another language and share their meanings with the class. 2. Demonstrate a way of communicating that does not involve speaking. 3. Create a book of foreign language vocabulary words, like numbers or colors, to share with your

classmates. 4. Illustrate a scene from a place in the United States where many languages are spoken. 5. Compile and present photographs or drawings of all the examples you can find of the use of another

language in your town.


Social Studies, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

In what ways does technology aid our understanding of the calendar?


Apply technology to study the yearly calendar.


7.1.NM.A.3, 8.1.4.A.1-2, 9.1.4.A.3, 9.1.4.D.3, RI.1.1-10, W.1.2, W.1.5, W.1.8


1. Use www.starfall.com to complete a calendar quiz. 2. Locate illustrations for each month of the year using clip art, print, and display for your classmates. 3. Investigate a holiday in the United States or another country using a kid-friendly search engine, such as

www.askkids.com, and present to your classmates. 4. Apply technology to produce an illustrated document of your birth month, including clip art, word art,

and text. 5. Create an illustrated calendar for the upcoming school year using technology. Include important dates

for students to know.


English Language Arts, 21st Century Life and Careers, World Languages



Content: 21st Century Life Skills Month: October

Essential Question:

What skills keep us safe in the event of a fire?


Identify measures associated with fire safety.


1.3.2.D.1, 9.2.4.A.1, 9.3.4.A.2, 9.2.4.A.4, RI.2.1-10, W.2.2, W.2.6, W.2.8


1. Illustrate the exit routes in a map of your home. 2. Design a fire prevention poster, including key strategies to use in the event of a fire. 3. Interview a fireman or firewoman using your prepared questions and present your findings. 4. Compose and perform a poem, song, or rap to help your classmates remember fire safety rules. 5. Create and present a fire safety brochure.





Content: Science Month: September

Essential Question:

How are living things dependent on their environments?


Identify endangered animals in their habitats and assess their dependency for survival on their environments.


1.3.2.C.1-3, 1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.A.15, 6.1.4.B.5, 6.1.4.B.9, 6.3.4.B.1, 5.1.4.B.1-4, 5.1.4.C.1-3, 5.1.4.D.4, 5.3.2.B.1, 8.1.4.A.1-5, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI-2.1-10


1. Identify and illustrate an endangered animal. Explain why the animal is endangered. Locate the animal's habitat on a world map.

2. Create a visual representation such as a diorama, poster, model, or graphic illustrating the characteristics of the environment necessary to save an endangered animal from extinction.

3. Conduct an interview with an endangered animal to include questions about the life and concerns of the animal as it relates to endangerment.

4. Create a skit about an endangered animal, with props, that shows the problems experienced by the animal in the environment.

5. Research an endangered species and outline a plan necessary to save the species. Will your plan save other endangered animals?


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

How can electromagnets be used in daily life?


Investigate the properties and uses of an electromagnet.


1.3.2.D.5, 5.1.4.D.3, 5.2.4.E.3, 5.2.6.E.2, 5.2.8.A.6, 8.1.4.A.3, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.12.1-10, W.2.2, W.2.6, W.2.8


1. List businesses and services that utilize electromagnets. 2. Apply your knowledge of magnetism to illustrate a practical use of an electromagnet. 3. Utilize technology to conduct research of the uses and creation of an electromagnet. Report your

findings in writing. 4. Create and demonstrate your own electromagnet. 5. Employ technology to design a PowerPoint presentation on electromagnets, including a definition, uses,

and clip art of photographs.


English Language Arts, Science, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: World Languages Month: December

Essential Question:

How do different cultures celebrate holidays?


Investigate the celebration of holidays in Spanish speaking countries.


1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.B.10, 6.1.4.C.16, 6.1.4.D.17-20, 7.1.NM.A.3, 7.1.NM.C.5, 8.1.4.A.1-5, RI-2.1-10, W-2.1-10


1. Illustrate a calendar of holidays that are celebrated in a Spanish-speaking country. 2. Construct a diorama, model, or other visual representation of a holiday celebrated in a Spanish-speaking

country. 3. Create an activity such as a game, song, or meal that is part of a celebration of a holiday in a Spanish-

speaking country. 4. Produce a fact book of monthly holidays in a Spanish-speaking country using the Spanish vocabulary

necessary to describe the holidays. 5. Compare and contrast the celebration of an American holiday, such as the Fourth of July with a holiday

celebrated in a Spanish-speaking country, such as Cinco de Mayo.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, Character Education, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

In what ways can technology be employed to illustrate sequencing or a chain of events?


Demonstrate technology skills and the comprehension of sequencing.


1.3.2.D.1-2, 8.1.2.A.4, 8.1.2.B.1, 8.1.2.F.1, 8.1.4.B.1, 8.2.2.B.1, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.2.1-10, W.2.2-3, W.2.6-8


1. Locate pictures on the Internet using a kid-friendly image search that illustrates a sequence of events and print all pictures.

2. Compile an illustrated booklet of pictures that depict a chain of events and write captions using a word processing program.

3. Devise a plan to repair a broken object (e.g., a toy, household item) and use a kid-friendly computer program to create a graphic organizer detailing the steps in the repair process.

4. Utilize digital mapping tools to demonstrate step-by-step directions from your home to school or another favorite destination.

5. Produce a media-rich story that explains a local or school happening. Use a digital camera to document the sequence of events.


English Language Arts, Mathematics, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Social Studies Month: February

Essential Question:

How have people from different cultures or backgrounds impacted life in the United States?


Recognize real people and fictional characters who have made significant contributions to life in the United States.


1.3.2.D.1, 2.2.4.B.3, 2.2.4.C.3, 6.1.4.A.14-15, 6.1.4.B.10, 6.1.4.D.13-20, 7.1.NM.C.5, RI.2.1-10


1. Select a real person who fought for equal rights in the United States and illustrate the person's contributions.

2. Identify examples of responsible citizenship in the school or the community. 3. Read a story of your choice and design a graphic organizer describing a character's leadership

characteristics. 4. Learn about different cultures and traditions of people who live in other states in our country. Create a

visual presentation comparing and contrasting your findings. 5. Determine how cultures around the world impacted literature, art, or sports in the United States.


English Language Arts, World Languages, Health and Physical Education, Character Education, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Music Month: June

Essential Question:

How does music tell a story?


Determine diverse applications of music.


1.1.2.B.1-4, 1.1.2.C.3, 1.2.5.A.2, 1.3.2.B.1, 1.3.2.B.6, 1.3.2.C.1-3, 1.3.2.D.1-4, 1.4.2.A.3, 9.1.2.A.5, 9.1.4.F.2, RI.2.1-10, W.2.3, W.2.8


1. Illustrate a favorite song that tells a story. You may use any materials you wish. 2. Create a diorama that depicts the story of a famous song. 3. Assign instruments to play the parts of characters in a favorite story (e.g., Little Red Riding Hood, Peter

the Wolf). 4. Dramatize a song that tells a story. You may wish to dress like a character of the story to present your

song. 5. Compose new lyrics that tell a story to a tune you know and present to your classmates.





Content: Social Studies Month: May

Essential Question:

In what ways do the people of the United States demonstrate their national pride?


Determine how symbols of the United States express national pride.


1.3.2.D.1, 6.1.4.B.1-3, 6.1.4.B.6-7, 6.1.4.B.10, 6.1.4.C.12, 6.1.4.D.17, RI.2.1-10


1. Select a national symbol or landmark that makes you proud to live in the United States and explain or illustrate your choice.

2. Represent your pride in the United States in the design and construction or composition of an original symbol, song, or poem.

3. Investigate the history of an American symbol or landmark and present your findings. 4. Compare and contrast symbols and landmarks of the United States that demonstrate national pride with

those of another country of your choice. 5. Plan a road trip to visit landmarks throughout the United States. Create a United States map with the

location, an illustration, and an explanation of the significance of each landmark.


Language Arts Literacy, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

In what ways have New Jerseyans influenced their state and country?


Investigate the lives and accomplishments of famous New Jerseyans.


1.3.5.B.3, 1.3.5.C.2, 1.3.5.D.1-3, 3.1.4.H.3, 6.1.4.C.12-13, 6.1.4.C.16, 6.1.4.D.7, 6.1.4.D.12, 8.1.4.A.3, 9.1.4.A.1-5, 9.1.4.D.1, 9.1.4.E.2, RI.3.1-10, W.3.2-3


1. Illustrate the life and accomplishments of a famous New Jerseyan on a timeline. 2. Write a children's book about an important New Jerseyan and present your book to the class. 3. Create and perform a poem, song, or rap about the life of an influential New Jerseyan. 4. Present a model of an invention created by a famous New Jerseyan. 5. Dramatize the life of a famous New Jerseyan. You may use technology if you wish.


English Language Arts, Technology, 21st Century Life Skills, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Social Studies Month: September

Essential Question:

How do communities compare to each other?


Assess the unique characteristics of Somerville in comparison with other communities.


1.3.5.D.1, 6.1.4.B.1-3, 6.1.4.B.6, 6.1.4.B.10, 6.1.4.D.11, 8.1.4.A.2, 8.1.4.A.5, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.3.1-10


1. Design and create a map from your neighborhood to the school. Include a scale, compass rose, and key. Indicate the distance from home to school using standard and non-standard units of measure.

2. Construct a model of an historic or important building in Somerville. Include an explanation of why the building is important to the community, its age, and the architectural style.

3. Characterize the community of Somerville in an alphabet book using pictures and written descriptions. For example, A is for ambulance; Somerville has its own rescue squad of volunteers. My uncle serves on the rescue squad and he responds to all medical emergencies in the community.

4. Write a commercial persuading someone to move to Somerville. 5. Select examples of different kinds of neighborhoods, such as rural, urban, or suburban communities.

How are these communities the same and how are they different from Somerville?





Content: Technology Month: December

Essential Question:

What makes a community unique?


Employ technology to conduct research of communities.


6.1.4.A.8, 6.1.4.B.4, 6.1.4.C.12, 8.1.4.A.1-3, 8.1.4.A.5, 8.1.4.E.2, RI.3.1-10, W.3.2-3


1. Locate facts regarding Somerville on a teacher-directed website. Write questions to quiz your classmates based on the information you find.

2. Employ a kid-friendly search engine to find a reliable website containing information about a community of your choice. Create a graphic organizer to present your findings.

3. Produce an informational pamphlet, including text and illustrations about a community of your choice using technology.

4. Investigate specific facts about Somerville through the use of an Internet Web Quest. 5. Create a multimedia presentation detailing the history of a community of your choice and present to

your classmates.


English Language Arts, Social Studies



Content: Health Month: December

Essential Question:

How can I keep my body healthy?


Investigate common diseases, their causes, and personal habits that maintain good health.


1.1.5.B.2, 1.3.5.D.1, 2.1.4.A.1-2, 2.1.4.B.1-2, 2.1.4.C.1, 2.1.4.C.3, 2.2.4.B.1, 2.2.4.B.3, 5.1.4.B.2, 5.3.4.A.3, 8.1.4.A.2, 8.1.4.A.5, 9.1.4.A.1-5


1. Identify the factors that contributed to the elimination of serious childhood diseases. 2. Describe ways to avoid illnesses in an original poem or song. 3. Compile a guide for maintaining the health of each of your body systems by creating a Body System

brochure or handbook. 4. Compare and contrast positive and negative practices that impact physical, mental, and emotional

health. 5. Interpret the impact of environmental factors on a child's health.


English Language Arts, Science, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Music Month: March

Essential Question:

How can music be produced through the use of different tools?


Investigate unconventional musical instruments.


1.2.5.A.1-2, 1.2.8.A.2, 1.3.8.B.2, 6.1.4.A.14, 6.1.4.D.20, 8.1.4.A.3, RI.3.1-10, W.3.2


1. Draw a picture of an unusual musical instrument that you have discovered. 2. Make a list of materials that might be used to create your own musical instrument and draw a picture of

your instrument. 3. Create your own musical instrument using materials of your choice and play for the class. 4. Collaborate with your classmates to form an ensemble to play your personally-created instruments. 5. Conduct research of the instruments associated with a specific culture (e.g., Caribbean, Asian, African)

and present your findings to the class using visual aids.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

How can simple machines lessen our work?


Assess the effectiveness of simple machines.


1.1.5.B.2, 5.1.4.B.2, 5.1.4.C.3, 5.1.4.D.3, 5.2.4.E.2, 8.1.4.A.2, 8.1.4.A.5, RI3.1-10, W3.1-10


1. The lever, inclined plane, wheel and axle, screw, pulley, and wedge are simple machines. Estimate the number of times you use each type of simple machine daily. Chart your actual use, indicating the number of times you use each type of machine and the way it helps you. Compare your estimate to your actual use.

2. Assess the challenges you would face if simple machines did not exist. 3. Create and present a new machine using two or more simple machines together. Use any materials of

your choice, such as Legos, blocks, or modeling materials. 4. Research the life of an inventor who employed a simple machine in his/her work. Depict the use of

simple machine(s) by the inventor in a two- or three-dimensional form. Include the inventor's biographical information and an explanation of the invention.

5. Choose the simple machine you believe to be the most important. Defend your choice.





Content: Music Month: May

Essential Question:

How can we view our world through music?


Relate selected musical compositions to current events for the time period during which they were composed.


1.2.5.A.1-3, 1.3.5.B.3, 1.3.5.D.1-2, 1.3.5.E.5, 1.4.5.A.1-3, 6.1.4.D.20, 8.1.4.A.2, 8.1.8.A.5, RI.3.1-10, W.3.2


1. Illustrate the event(s) that coincide with the composition of a chosen musical piece (e.g., The 1812 Overture of the Star-Spangled Banner).

2. Compose a newspaper article that explains the event(s) that occurred during the time of a specific composition (e.g., Blowin' in the Wind or Where Have All the Flowers Gone?)

3. Construct a three-dimensional representation (e.g., a diorama) of the event(s) that inspired a song of your choice.

4. Create an original song that relates current affairs in your town, state, or country. 5. Research a song or songs that depict events in countries other than the United States and report your

findings.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology



Content: Visual and Performing Arts Month: May

Essential Question:

In what ways does the work of artists enrich daily life?


Investigate varied uses of visual arts.


1.1.5.D.1-2, 1.2.8.A.1, 1.3.5.D.1-2, 9.4.12.N(5).1, 9.1.4.A.1-5, R1-3.1-10, W3,1-10


1. Produce and present a persuasive advertising campaign for a product or service of your choice using any art form(s).

2. Create a children's storybook using copies of famous paintings/artwork to illustrate your words. 3. Compare and contrast the uses, themes, and/or media used in two different art forms, such as painting

and sculpture and present your findings. 4. Research the impact of technology on visual arts. 5. Assess the emotional impact of the principles of art (e.g., color, space, theme, unity, balance) in varied

works of art.


English Language Arts, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers



Content: Music Month: November

Essential Question:

How can we view our world through music?


Investigate the emotions produced by music.


1.1.5.B.1-2, 1.1.8.B.1-2, 1.2.5.A.1, 1.2.5.A.3, 1.3.5.D.1, 1.3.5.D.4, 8.1.4.A.3, RI.4.1-10, W.4.2-3


1. Draw a picture of the way a song of your choice makes you feel. Label your illustration with the title of the song and the emotion(s) it produces. Explain your choice.

2. Listen to a song you have chosen, identify the instrument you hear, and classify by family (e.g., wind, brass, percussion, string). Illustrate the emotions that different instrument families produce in a format of your choice.

3. Compare and contrast the three minor scales and the emotions they produce using a graphic organizer of your choice.

4. Compose a story that reflects one of the two endings of ascending minor scales. 5. Depict the life of a composer of your choice in a multimedia presentation using appropriate music to

accompany the events of his/her life. Include a description of the emotions produced by his/her compositions.


English Language Arts, Technology




Essential Question:

In what ways do plant cells differ from animal cells?


Compare and contrast the structure of an animal cell with the structure of a plant cell.


1.3.5.D.1-2, 5.1.4.A.1-3, 5.1.4.B.1-4, 5.1.4.C.1-3, 5.3.4.A.2-3, 5.3.6.A.2, 5.3.8.A.1-2, RI4.1-10, W4.1-10


1. Construct models of plant and animal cells using any appropriate medium (e.g., clay, foil, pipe cleaners). Label the parts of each cell on a separate key.

2. Assume the role of a part of a cell. Describe your function. 3. Distinguish among different parts of cells, the functions they serve, and how they work together for the

well-being of the organism. 4. Compare and contrast two or more cells viewed under magnification and illustrate your findings. 5. Conduct research of the life of a famous scientist whose area of expertise involved the study of plant or

animal cells. Illustrate and present the scientist's life story and his/her major accomplishments.


English Language Arts, Technology, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Social Studies Month: March

Essential Question:

How did the colonies gain independence?


Investigate the events leading to the American Revolution and their effect on daily life in the colonies.


1.3.5.D.1-2, 6.1.4.D.4-8, 6.1.8.A.2.a-c, 6.1.8.B.2.a, 8.1.4.E.1, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI4.1-10, W4.1-10


1. Select an aspect of daily life in the colonies and display in a diorama or other graphic form. 2. Defend your position as a New Jersey Patriot or Loyalist during the period preceding the American

Revolution. 3. Detail the effect of the events leading to the American Revolution on a New Jersey citizen in the

composition of a newspaper column titled A Day in the Life. 4. Research the role of a New Jersey colonist in the American Revolution and write a thank you letter

expressing your gratitude for his/her contributions. 5. Imagine life in the United States today if the British had won the American Revolution. Organize and

present your thoughts.


Language Arts Literacy, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Social Studies Month: December

Essential Question:

In what way do global current events affect daily life?


Analyze global current events and their effects.


1.3.5.C.1-2, 6.3.4.A.2-3, 6.3.4.B.1-2, 8.1.4.B.1, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.4.1-10, W4.1-10


1. Summarize the ways that information you read in a newspaper or magazine impact your day. 2. Dramatize a public service announcement informing your audience of something you learned from the

news. 3. Construct a twenty-four hour timeline of global events and explain their significance to your classmates. 4. Research an event depicted in a newspaper or magazine article and present an eyewitness account of the

event. 5. Create a series of editorials about news events in a magazine for young readers.





Content: Science Month: May

Essential Question:

How do we learn from the past?


Investigate the work and discoveries of an archaeologist.


1.3.5.D.1-2, 5.1.4.A.2, 5.1.4.B.2-4, 5.1.4.C.1-3, 5.1.12.D.2, 8.1.4.A.3, 8.1.4.A.5, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.4.1-10, W4.1-10


1. Prepare a sample archaeological "dig" for your classmates, including artifacts a person might find at the seashore.

2. Create a résumé for an archaeologist. Include all of the information required to submit when seeking a position in the field of archaeology.

3. Document the planning, execution, and discoveries of an important historical archaeological "dig" in an illustrated timeline.

4. Research a significant archaeological discovery. Determine its value as an indicator of the lives of those who used the item(s) and present your findings.

5. Construct a museum exhibit of artifacts you "discovered" in your role as an archaeologist. Explain the inclusion of each artifact based on relevance to the time period it represents and its historical importance.





Content: Social Studies Month: January

Essential Question:

In what ways do global current events affect daily life?


Analyze global current events and their effects.


1.2.4.D.1, 6.1.4.A.1, 6.1.4.A.3-6, 8.1.4.B.5-7, 9.1.4.A.1-2, 9.1.4.A.5, RI..4.1-10, W.4.2-3


1. Summarize the ways that information you read in a newspaper or magazine impact your day. 2. Dramatize a public service announcement informing your audience of something you learned from the

news. 3. Construct a twenty-four-hour timeline of global events and explain their significance to your

classmates. 4. Research an event depicted in a newspaper or magazine article and present an eyewitness account of the

event. 5. Create a series of editorials about news events in a magazine for young readers.





Content: Social Studies/Citizenship Month: April

Essential Question:

How are the laws of the nation upheld?


Explore the function of the United States judicial system.


1.3.5.C.2, 1.3.5.D.1, 6.1.4.A.1-2, 6.1.4.A.4-5, 6.1.4.A.11, 6.1.4.A.14, 6.1.8.A.3.b, 6.1.8.A.3.h, 6.1.12.A.2.e, 8.1.4.A.1-3, 9.1.4.A.1-5, RI.4.1-10, W.4.2-3


1. Create a glossary of definitions and a word wall of vocabulary pertinent to the study of the United States judicial system.

2. Illustrate the steps involved in a trial by jury from the arrest of an alleged criminal through the decision of the jury.

3. Present the facts of a New Jersey court case in the role of a television or newspaper reporter. 4. Compare and contrast the judicial system of the United States with that of another nation and present

your findings using technology. 5. Assess the rights of the judicial branch of the United States government. Defend or argue against each

right (e.g., lifelong appointment, the ability to rule in interstate affairs, the lack of qualifications for office in the United States Constitution).


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

In what ways are the states of the United States alike and different?


Employ technology to conduct research of the states of the United States.


6.1.4.B.6-7, 6.1.4.B.10, 8.1.8.A.1-5, RI.4.1-10, W.4.2-3


1. Locate a blank map of the United States using the Internet and print. Label all of the states and their capitals.

2. Produce a word document that provides information about a state capital of your choice, including images.

3. Utilize a template to create a game of facts about the United States and play it with your classmates. 4. Create and share a multimedia presentation using facts and images about famous United States

landmarks. 5. Illustrate the average temperature in all fifty states during two seasons of the year in an Excel

spreadsheet.


English Language Arts, Social Studies




Essential Question:

What is the power of the individual?


Recognize that each individual in a society has the power to affect change.


1.3.5.C.1, 1.3.5.D.1, 1.3.5.D.5, 6.1.8.D.3.D-E, 6.2.12.D.2.C-E, 8.1.8.E.1, 9.1.8.A.2-4, RI.4.1-10, W.5.2-3


1. Create a visual representation of the people who have made a difference in your life and explain how. 2. Dramatize the life of a global figure who has been an agent for change. 3. Produce a model of an invention that has changed daily life and explain the process undertaken by the

inventor in its creation. 4. Conduct research of an era of United States or world history during which far-reaching change took

place. Represent the significant agents of change and their accomplishments on an annotated timeline. 5. Organize a grade-level public service project that addresses the need for change in your school or

community.


English Language Arts, Technology, 21st Century Life Skills, Visual and Performing Arts




Essential Question:

What is necessary to predict weather?


Determine the preparation, tools, and skills necessary to predict and report the weather, weather conditions, and weather events.


1.3.5.C.1-2, 5.3.4.C.2, 5.3.6.E.1, 5.4.6.F.1-2, 5.4.8.F.1, 8.1.8.A.1, 9.1.8.A.1-2, RI.5.1-10, W.5.1-10


1. Record rainfall in the Van Derveer butterfly garden through the use of a rain gauge you construct. Chart your findings.

2. Research the education, job description, and salary of a meteorologist. Create an advertisement for hiring a meteorologist.

3. Compare and contrast the weather and ecosystems in two geographically-diverse areas of the world, such as the equator and a polar region. Graph your findings.

4. Dramatize an interview with a person who experienced an extreme weather event, such as a thunderstorm, blizzard, or tornado. Include information about the best preparation, personal experiences, and the aftermath reported about the event.

5. Research the issue of global warming and present a possible solution. Defend your plan.





Content: Music Month: January

Essential Question:

How do classical and popular music compare?


Compare and contrast the elements of classical and popular music.


1.1.5.B.1-2, 1.3.5.B.3-4, 1.4.5.A.1-3, 1.4.8.A.1, 8.1.4.B.1, RI.5.1-10, W.5.2


1. Illustrate the emotions you feel when listening to a classical and popular composition of your choice. 2. Compare and contrast the instruments you hear while listening to a classical and popular composition

and classify them in the instrument families to which they belong. 3. Create a diorama of the scene you imagine while listening to a classical or popular composition. 4. Compose a personal composition (e.g., a jingle, rap, or instrumental piece) based on the tune of a

classical or popular song and perform it for the class. 5. Conduct research of a copyright infringement case about the use of an established melody in the

creation of a new song and report your findings.


English Language Arts, Technology



Content: English Language Arts Month: November

Essential Question:

How does immigration affect the social and economic development of the United States?


Analyze the lives, history, and contributions of immigrants of the 20th and 21st centuries to American society.


1.3.5.C.1-2, 8.1.8.A.1, 8.1.8.B.1, 9.1.8.A.1-3, 9.1.8.D.4, 9.1.12.D.2, RI.5.1-10, W.5.1-10


1. Produce a passport for an imaginary immigrant from a country of choice, including all required information.

2. Create a story, play, or poem about entering the United States at Ellis Island. 3. Create a family tree including your relatives' names, birthdates, and countries of origin. 4. Generate a timeline of different waves of immigrants entering the United States and the reason they

came to this country. 5. Determine the impact of different waves of immigrants on our country's culture, including such

elements as food, art, literature, and sports.


English Language Arts, Social Studies, Technology, Character Education, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts,



Content: Social Studies Month: May

Essential Question:

In what ways does the Bill of Rights affect citizens of the United States?


Examine the history of the Bill of Rights and its current application to life in the United States.


1.3.5.C.1-2, 6.1.8.A.3.a-g, 8.1.8.A.1, 8.1.8.B.1, 9.1.8.A.1-3, RI.5.1-10, W.5.1-10


1. Illustrate the first ten amendments of the United States Constitution in a Bill of Rights pamphlet depicting an example of the application of each amendment in daily life in the United States.

2. Assume the role of an opponent to any amendment of the Bill of Rights and present your arguments. 3. Compare and contrast the similarities and differences between the British Bill of Rights and the United

States Bill of Rights. 4. Defend what you deem to be the most (or least) important amendment of the Bill of Rights. Include the

implied responsibilities of United States citizens. 5. Select and describe a decision of the United States Supreme Court based on the interpretation of the Bill

of Rights. Critique the court's decision.


Language Arts Literacy, Visual and Performing Arts, Technological Literacy



Content: Health Month: February

Essential Question:

How can we contribute to our own good health?


Analyze the factors that contribute to a healthy lifestyle.


1.3.5.C.1-2, 2.1.6.A.1-3, 2.1.6.B.1-4, 2.1.6.D.1, 2.2.6.B.1-4, 2.2.6.D.1-2, 2.5.6.C.3, 6.3.4.A.2-3, 9.1.8.A.1-3


1. Design a restaurant that promotes good health. Construct a model, including such components as the menu, nutritional information, and advertising.

2. Create a board game focusing on the components of good nutrition and healthy living. Present it to your class.

3. Set a personal health goal and develop an individual wellness plan. Illustrate the components of your plan and chart your progress.

4. Compare and contrast personal health choices of people who live in the United States and those who live in another nation of your choice. Organize and report your information and draw conclusions about your findings.

5. Construct a school-wide exercise campaign that promotes building strong, healthy bodies and targets the prevention of injuries. Conduct a demonstration for your classmates.


Social Studies, Technology, Character Education, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts



Content: Music Month: February

Essential Question:

In what ways are historical and current events reflected in music?


Analyze how music reflects historical and current events.


1.1.8.B.1-2, 1.1.8.D.1-2, 1.3.8.B.4, 1.3.8.D.5, 6.3.8.A.1, RI.5.1-10, W.5.1-3


1. Depict an historical event and the song that it inspired in a visual representation. 2. Explain how the use of certain instruments conveys the message of a song with a connection to an

historical or current event. 3. Conduct an interview with an adult of your choice to determine why a song has a special meaning for

that person. Include the circumstances that led to the decision and the song’s lyrics. 4. Write a newspaper column critiquing a song that reflects an historical or current event. 5. Compose a jingle for use in a political campaign and perform for the class.


English Language Arts Literacy, Social Studies



Content: Technology Month: June

Essential Question:

How can we use technology to improve our understanding of energy resources?


Apply technology to investigate energy resources.


1.3.5.D.1, 5.1.8.A.3, 5.1.8.B.1-3, 8.1.8.A.1-5, 8.2.8.F.1-2, 9.1.8.A.2-4, RI.5.1-10, W.5.2-3


1. Employ technology to illustrate sustainable energy resources, their sources, and potential uses in a graphic representation of your choice.

2. Compare and contrast two new energy resources you have discovered in a format you design for presentation.

3. Design and print a pamphlet that explains the pros and cons of a sustainable energy resource of your choice.

4. Create a multimedia presentation that serves to advertise an alternative energy resource (e.g., corn, clean coal, solar power).

5. Conduct research to report the past cost and predict future cost of a fuel source (e.g., oil, natural gas) used exclusively during your lifetime from the date of your birth to age thirty. Graph the results using technology.


English Language Arts, Mathematics, Science, 21st Century Life and Careers, Visual and Performing Arts

Documents

GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: GRADES K-5 - … · 2011-10-14 · GIFTED AND TALENTED MODULE: GRADES K-5 Enclosed are additional Gifted and Talented instructional modules for grades