What's Going On?
Right now, we are studying ECOSYSTEMS and FOOD CHAINS/WEBS! In this unit, students will...
1. Complete a group research project about one of Earth's major biomes
2. Build a terrarium and observe the organisms within that ecosystem
3. Dissect owl pellets
4. Create energy pyramids to demonstrate common food chains
1. Complete a group research project about one of Earth's major biomes
2. Build a terrarium and observe the organisms within that ecosystem
3. Dissect owl pellets
4. Create energy pyramids to demonstrate common food chains
What's a CER?
The C-E-R stands for "Claim - Evidence - Reasoning." At the beginning of a new unit or topic, students are given the "essential question" for that concept. Throughout the unit, students will gather and collect evidence that will help them to answer the essential question at the end of the unit. At the end of the unit, students will answer the essential question in the CER format. In paragraph form, students must state their claim (answer the question), support their claim with evidence (tell what they have learned), and give their reasoning (explain how their evidence led to their claim.) The CER shows that students have learned the essential content and are able to demonstrate their understanding through writing. Throughout the year, students will also keep track of their individual CER progress and make personal goals for themselves.