SciGen Teacher Dashboard
Unit T2
Models in Science
Is bug spray a big deal?
About Systems and Models
Tracing the Path of Water through a Watershed
Did a model save the bay?
The Proposed Dam
Writing: The Proposed Dam
Duration: Approximately 40 minutes
Students respond to the writing prompt using information from the class discussion. Students should use an authoritative stance, as well as include the focus words from the unit.
LEARNING OBJECTIVE
Students write about a hypothetical real-life situation in which a model might be useful.
Teacher Tip
- SciGen writing assignments are flexible. They may be given as homework or assigned as more formal assignments that include multiple drafts.
ACTIVITY OVERVIEW
- Pre-writing (5 min)
- Writing (30 minutes)
- Debrief (5 minutes)
Pre-writing (5 minutes)
Writing Prompt:
A new company in your town wants to build a dam on a nearby river so that it can get electrical power for its factory.
Local scientists suggest to the city leaders that they build a model to see what might happen to the river and surrounding land if a dam were built. Your mayor thinks that models are a waste of money. Please advise the mayor based on what you now know about models.
In your response, be sure to include:
- Why the scientists want to make a model
- What the city might learn from building a model
- Suggestion of a type of model for the city to consider
Read the prompt to students. Clarify any questions that students may have. Encourage students to engage in pre-writing activities such as brainstorming, concept mapping, or partner discussion.
Writing (30 minutes)
Use this PDF handout or assign another method for students to do their writing.
Discussion (5 minutes)
If time permits, offer students the opportunity to discuss or share their writing with one another or with the class.
BETA Version - Please send comments and corrections to info@serpinstitute.org
This project was supported by Science Sandbox, a Simons Foundation initiative dedicated to engaging everyone with the process of science.
Strategic Education Research Partnership
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info@serpinstitute.org