Grades 4-6: The Video Game Unit

During our final unit of the 07/08 school year, we have begun exploring the benefits (good things) and drawbacks (bad things) about video games.

This unit is five classes long, and includes the following topics: the history of video gaming (from 1972 to the present), video gaming in the media, video gaming among BG junior students, recent research and satistics, and healthy video game suggestions.

To complete the unit, we will: Make an online survey, watch some youtube films, read current online news articles and research from international sourccs, play video games, have a multi-class debate, and build a simple website with our findings.

As discussed in class, please post suggestions for survey questions to this blog entry.

Yes, this post will count toward a mark for your report card. If you're confused, as always, you can contact me through TEL.

Computer Club: Media and Reality

Reality is a noun referring to anything that is real. An event that has actually happened, or a noun that really exists is said to have "reality."

But what is reality, really?

A lot of people believe that reality is made up of truth and fact. The word 'truth' comes from the Old English 'tríewþ', and had to do with belief and faith. The word 'fact', on the other hand, derives from the Latin 'factum', and meant, "a thing done or performed".

Who we are influences our reality - what we believe to be true and factual. Can you think of any examples of how YOUR reality influences what you think?

Read what blogger Robin LaFevers has to say about Fact and Truth.

Let's use the Internet to see an example of how perspective can change how you view reality. We're going to watch two short videos that have different perspectives. One was produced by a major television station, the other was produced by a major website.

I Love the World

Humans!

Are both of those 'real' views of the planet? Which is more 'real'?

How does perspective alter reality?

Grade Six: Science Project Instructions

Each project must include the following;

1. Introduction: How will you introduce your topic to the class? What will your 'hook' be? How will you get us excited about what we are going to learn about?
2. Talk: How will you describe your topic to the group? What visuals will you use (costumes, videos, online activities, etc)?
3. Hands-On Section: Who will cary out the hands-on portion of your presentation? Will it be a teacher, a student, a small group of people, or everyone? What materials will you need? (be SPECIFIC!) Will you need visual aids?
4. Review: How will you review your topic? (Will you use a game? A quiz? A blog post?) If you're going to ask questions, what questions will you ask? If you're going to do a game, will you require prizes?

While you answer the questions above, remember: You are writing a presentation outline, not a script. This excercise is not about memorizing what words your going to use, it's about understanding your topic.

I'll be around this weekend should you have any questions.

roxy.bromley@tel.tdsb.on.ca