Author:  Scott Hayden

Grade: 7
Content area: Science (ecology and biology)
 

Objective: To utilize Internet sites to gather information for comparing and contrasting different species of wolves and to examine scientific procedures to protect and help wolves flourish 

Wisconsin Model Academic Content Standards: 
Science C.8.2.  To locate sources of information on topics related to questions
Science G.8.5   To investigate a local topic that has had science applied to it

Wisconsin Model Academic Technology Standards:
A.8.4  To use the Internet to access and organize information
B.4.2  To develop information seeking strategies
B.4.3  To locate and access information sources
 

Lesson

Time: 3 class periods

Introduction:  Students will listen to a presentation on wolves by Scott Thiel who has studied and tracked wolves.  Students will also view a video detailing basic features and history of the wolf in our country.

Sequence of Instruction:
1.  Students will access the Internet and use key words to perform a search using a designated search engine.
2.  Students will choose sites to gather information on
     a.  gray wolf-size, range (in U.S. and WI), and history
     b.  red wolf-size, range, and history
     c.  other wolf species in the U.S.
3.  Students then will access sites that detail the reintroduction of wolves into Yellowstone National Park and detail their recent progress including data and techniques used.
4.  Students will access sites to gather information on wolf ecology and proper handling techniques.

Closure:
Students will develop a plan to study and protect Wisconsin wolves.