Weather+Unit

=Project Description:= The students were assigned a weather topic by their teacher. The librarian came in for one class and taught them how to cite their sources using Noodle Tools. Then we talked about safe internet surfing and evaluate internet information by using search engines. The students used a Wiki to collaborate with their group members and collect information about their topic. =IT Standards/Benchmarks:= 1.3 Identify and know how to use Menu options in application programs to develop text, graphic, spreadsheet, and Web documents; save, print, format, and add multimedia features; store, access, and manage files; and use dictionary, thesaurus, and spelling and grammar tools. 1.4 Know proper keyboarding position and technique to touch type using the correct hands for alphabetic, numeric, and special purpose keys (arrows, escape, backspace, delete, caps lock, and control); and know how to use these keys and the Edit Menu items to correct errors in a document. 2.2 Discuss basic issues related to responsible use of technology and information, identify scenarios describing acceptable and unacceptable computer use, and describe personal consequences of inappropriate use. 2.3 Identify software or technology-delivered access that is valuable to them, and describe how it improves their ability to communicate, be productive, or achieve personal goals. 3.1 Identify and apply common productivity software features such as menus and toolbars to plan, create, and edit word processing documents, spreadsheets, and presentations. 3.2 Know procedures for importing and manipulating pictures, images, and charts in word processing documents and spreadsheets, presentations, and other creative works. 4.1 Identify telecommunications tools (email, online discussions, Web environments) and online resources for collaborative projects with other students inside and outside the classroom who are studying similar curriculum-related content. 4.2 Identify a variety of media and formats to create and edit products (e.g., presentations, newsletters, Web pages, portable document format) that communicate syntheses of information and ideas from the curriculum to multiple audiences. 5.1 Describe steps for using common Web search engines and basic search functions of other technology resources to locate information, and guidelines for evaluating information from a variety of sources for its relevance to the curriculum.

=IL Standards/Benchmarks:= 1.2 State the question or need for information. 1.3 Identify and locate probable sources of information. 1.4 Judge information for accuracy, relevancy, and type (e.g, fact or fiction) 1.5 Identify and use information to create a product that satisfies the need or solves the problem. 2.1 Demonstrate individual responsibility for equitable access to information (e.g., share access to limited resources, return materials diligently). 2.2 State the conclusions of their research findings in their own words and cite sources. 2.3 Follow school guidelines for responsible use of information resources (e.g., checkout policies and library rules). 2.4 Share knowledge and information with others. 4.1 Identify and use various media and technologies to meet information needs 4.2 Identify and use search strategies to locate information in various media and technologies 4.3 Compare and contrast the quality and accuracy, relevancy, and type of information from a variety of media and technologies.
 * Standard 1: Students understand an inquiry process including how to access, evaluate and use information**
 * Standard 2: Students demonstrate an understanding of ethical, legal, and social responsibility in accessing, evaluating and using information, materials and technology**
 * Standard 4: Students distinguish among, evaluate and appropriately use current and emerging media and technologies in the inquiry process.**