Lesson plan: Journey of exploration

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Objectives

• Discuss the connection between exploring and understanding the world.
• Explain the importance of organizations supporting scientists.

Standards

Ten Thematic Strands in Social Studies

• Science, Technology and Society
• People, Places and Environments

Materials

CNNfyi article, "The treasure seekers"

Suggested time

One to two class periods, 45 to 50 minutes each.

Procedures

1. Begin the class by asking: Have you ever seen a National Geographic special on television? Which ones have you seen? What types of subjects are discussed on the programs?

2. Have students read the CNNfyi article, "The treasure seekers."

3. For review, ask students to answer the following questions:

• List the scientific areas represented by the explorers.
• What areas of the world have they explored?
• List the areas or places they would like to explore as a result of the support they will receive from the National Geographic Society.

4. Divide the class into seven groups and assign each group one of the seven explorers. Each group is to give a detailed presentation on their explorer. Direct them to include the following information:

• the type of scientist/explorer the individual is -- anthropologist. oceanographer, archaeologist, etc.
• what subject areas/areas on Earth this scientist researches.
• what initially got the explorer interested in this area of research; what was his/her initial dream?
• report on accomplishments the adventurer has had and problems he/she has faced (physical, psychological, medical).
• how technology has assisted the explorer in his/her research.
• how an individual/group supporter helped the researcher when others had given up.
• what factors kept the researcher going when hope was running out.
• qualities each seeks in fellow researchers.
• a description of the explorer's unfulfilled dream.

Assessment

Based on their research, ask students to write essays that consider their explorer's background and interests in determining what area they would challenge the scientist to explore. Ask them to be specific as to the particular type of vegetation/animal/location and why they think that person would be qualified to complete the project. Have them explain how they think technology, such as tele-presence, can assist the explorers in researching this area.

Extension

Have one person from each group represent the group's explorer and prepare a speech to be given before a school audience on the topic "Inquisitiveness in the 21st Century -- How It Can Be Nurtured."