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Mysterious Mummies of China

Ideas from Teachers

(Gr. 9-12)
Objective

The student will develop an understanding of technology as an application of scientific principles and investigate the diversity of life by watching the video, taking notes in a concept map style, and writing a one-page summary (typed, double spaced).

Materials

• NOVA 's "Mysterious Mummies of China" program
• computer
• paper
• pencil/pen
• printer
• graphic organizer or concept map instructions with model

Procedure

This is an extra credit project for students to complete at home.

The teacher will post the NOVA schedule in the classroom, and periodically remind students of the dates. On the date of the showing, students will either watch or tape for later viewing.

Students will use their graphic organizer/concept map illustration to guide them in taking notes. They will use the preview information for the skeleton of the notes, and as they watch the video they will fill in their concept map. After watching the video, and finishing the notes, they will draft a one-page summary of the film, adding opinions and insights.

Assessment

The student will turn in a copy of their notes, along with the summary. The typed document will be evaluated on content and grammar/spelling, etc.

Classroom Tips

I have used this technique in the classroom with short video "clips." I rewind the clip two times, and walk around to make sure that each student is "getting it." Students are more accustomed to filling in a worksheet based on a film. This style empowers them to identify the main ideas independent from the teacher. It also reinforces the students' auditory and visual learning techniques. However, I am using this format this year as an extra credit assignment, to be done outside of the classroom.

Sent in by
Marlene Brubaker
Camden County Technical School
Pennsauken, NJ