Before beginning this research module, your students should have a basic understanding of the following concepts:

• the importance of environmental issues on global, national, state, and local levels
• the components of a lead newspaper article and editorial

If your students do not have an understanding of these concepts, a mini-lesson will be necessary before you begin the research.

Developing Knowledge

Your students will develop an understanding of the following concepts during this research module:

• basic understanding of the research module and its parts
• basic computer skills (navigating internet, word processing)
• development of a lead newspaper article and editorial suitable for publication, giving credit to sources
• thorough understanding of an environmental issue and identification of possible solutions, alternatives, and/or goals
• supported opinions based on the enduring understandings and essential questions

Evidence of Understanding

• This research process will be evaluated at each step through a formative grading process (teacher observation, completion of stage, and peer and teacher conferencing).
• The lead newspaper article and editorial will be assessed using a rubric to generate a summative grade.

Why use Technology?

Students will be required to use the Internet to gain knowledge of the research process and to gain information on their topic. They will learn the basics of navigating the Internet and using word processing applications to create a product. Using technology will provide a motivating and interesting way to learn the research process.

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