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Unit lessons will present common characteristics of Native Americans and Pilgrims as well as categorize them by the regions that they lived. This will be done through direct instruction and modeling of demonstration of computer skills. I will use cooperative groups to allow students to explore and obtain information in an informal and inquiring manner (Behavioral and Constructivist approach). Students will work together independently gathering and completing information about the four major Native American in order to complete Thanksgiving Unit booklets. They will also work together collaboratively to surf the Internet and also to create a PowerPoint Slide Show on the group that they like best. My focus will be on research methods and informational resources available to students as wells the historical and cultural contributions of Native Americans. Booklets will be assessed independently and their Slide Show will be assessed as a group. I believe that students need both independent and group collaboration when learning new skills. Independent work allows them to fine tune their own skills while group interactions help to form intimate bonds, teacher sharing, and act as a sound board for learning that is spontaneous, inquiring, and fun for students. Because exceptional students have not had a lot of success with traditional methods of teaching, discovery learning is an excellent instructional method for them. They are more relaxed and perform better because they fell as if they can contribute to the learning experience in a positive way. They are engaged in the learning experience and not just spectators.
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