LU Title: States Research Project

Author(s): Marrick Anne McDonald

Grade Level: 8

School : Owen D. Young Central School

Topic/Subject Area: English and Social Studies

Address: PO Box 125, Van Hornesville, NY  13475

Email: Marrick@usa.net

Phone/Fax: (315)858-0729, (315)858-2019

Declarative

Procedural

Students will be able to recognize basic factual information about all the states

Students will be able to demonstrate proper citations for documentation using MLA documentation format

Students will be able to demonstrate proper citations for documentation using MLA documentation format

Students will be able to construct a power point presentation

Students will be able to recognize the validity of information on the internet

Students will be able to evaluate and design point of purchase advertising materials

Students will construct a three dimensional map of their state

Students will employ various technological resources

Students will employ the writing process

Part Number

Topic of Part

Total Point Value

Total Points Earned

1

Power Point Research Presentation

60

2

3-Dimensional Map

16

3

Advertising Display/ Poster

20

4

Trivia Questions*

20

5

Note cards and Works Cited**

40

6

Big Mac Essay

36

7

Email a State Resident

10 Bonus Points

8

Oral Presentation

25

9

State Fair

Other

Document Based Question

5

Other

Web site Treasure Hunt

5 ***

Areas

5

4

3

2

1

Subject

Content is clear and completely addressed

Content is addressed adequately

Content is weak and confused

Content needs more explanation

Content is not on topic

Voice

Inflective voice with good volume, easy to understand

Good volume and easy to understand

Volume is erratic, but understandable

Difficult to understand

Can not be heard

Eye Contact/Demeanor

Eye contact with all parts of the room, slight nervousness

Eye contact with only parts of the room, slight nervousness

Intermittent eye contact, obvious nervousness

Reads notes, but looks up occasionally

No eye contact

Visual Aid

Integral to report, colorful, easy to read

Helps presentation, colorful, OR easy to read

Does not enhance speech, no color OR small

Poorly made and used

No visual aid

Organization

Excellent, no slips

Good, no more than 3 slips

Off track at times

Little organization

No organization

TOTAL

Ideas and Content  - Communicating knowledge of the topic, including relevant

examples, facts, anecdotes and details

6

The writing is exceptionally clear, focused and

interesting. It holds the reader’s attention. Main

ideas stand out and are developed by strong support

and rich details that fit the audience and purpose. The

writing has

· a clear focus and control.

· main idea(s) that stand out.

· details that are on topic and carefully selected; when

needed, use of resources provides strong, accurate,

believable support.

· an appropriate amount of detail (not too much or too

little) to support an in-depth explanation or

exploration of the topic; the writing makes

connections and shares insights.

· main ideas and selected details that fit the purpose

and hold the reader’s attention from beginning to

end.

5

The writing is clear, focused and interesting. It holds

the reader's attention. Main ideas stand out and are

developed by supporting details that fit the audience

and purpose. The writing has

· a clear focus and control.

· main idea(s) that stand out.

· details that are on topic and carefully selected;

when needed, use of resources provides strong,

accurate, believable support.

· an appropriate amount of detail (not too much or

too little) to support a thorough explanation or

exploration of the topic; the writing makes

connections and shares insights.

· main ideas and selected details that fit the purpose

and hold the reader’s attention from beginning to

end.

4

The writing is clear and focused. The reader can easily

Understand the main ideas. Support is present, but may

Be limited or somewhat general. The writing has

· a clear purpose.

· clear main ideas.

· details that are on topic, but may be too general or

limited; when needed, resources are used to provide

accurate support.

· details that may sometimes be too many or too few for

a thorough explanation or exploration of the topic;

some connections and insights may be present.

· main ideas and selected details that fit the purpose

and hold the reader’s attention most of the time from

beginning to end.

3

The writing has main idea(s), but they may be too

broad or simplistic. Supporting detail is often too

limited, overly general, or sometimes off the topic. The

writing has

· a purpose that is easy to find.

· main idea(s) that are easy to find but overly obvious

or predictable; main points or conclusions repeat

ideas often heard.

· support of main ideas, but there aren’t enough

supporting details, or they are too general,

predictable, or somewhat off topic.

· details that may not be based on reliable resources;

may be based on clichés, stereotypes, or sources of

information that are biased, uninformed, or

unreliable.

2

The writing has main idea(s), but they are

undeveloped, and the purpose is somewhat unclear.

The writing has

· an unclear purpose that requires the reader to guess

the main ideas.

· minimal development, lacking details.

· details, when included, are not well connected to

the main ideas and clutter the paper.

· details that are frequently repeated.

1

The writing lacks main idea(s) or purpose. The writing

Has

· ideas that are very limited or simply unclear.

· few or no attempts to develop ideas; the paper is too

short to demonstrate the development of an idea.

Organization  Structuring information in logical sequence, making connections and transitions among ideas, sentences and paragraphs

6

The organization makes the central idea(s) and

supporting details clear. The order and structure are

strong and move the reader easily through the writing.

The writing has

· effective (and sometimes creative) ideas, details,

and examples in an order that is easy to follow.

· a strong and inviting introduction that draws the

reader in and a strong conclusion that leaves the

reader satisfied.

· smooth, effective transitions that tie together ideas,

sentences and paragraphs; the reader can move

easily from one part to the next.

· details placed where they work well and make the

most sense.

5

The organization helps clarify the central idea(s) and

supporting details. The order and structure are

strong and move the reader through the writing. The

writing has

· ideas, details, and examples in an order that makes

sense and is easy to follow.

· an inviting introduction that draws the reader in

and a conclusion that leaves the reader satisfied.

· smooth transitions that tie together ideas,

sentences, and paragraphs; the reader can move

easily from one part to the next.

· details placed where they work well and make the

most sense.

4

The organization is clear and functional. Order and

Structure are present, but may seem like a formula.

The writing has

· clear sequencing.

· an organization that may be predictable.

· an introduction that is recognizable but may not be

especially inviting; a developed conclusion that is

functional but may seem repetitive and ordinary.

· transitions that work but they may be awkward or

common.

· a body that is easy to follow with details that fit

where placed.

· an organization which helps the reader, despite

some weaknesses.

3

An attempt to organize the writing has been made, but

it does not work well in places or is too obvious. The

writing has

· attempts to put ideas in order, but the order is

sometimes unclear.

· a beginning and an ending, but they are either too

short or too obvious (e.g., "My topic is..."; "These

are all the reasons that...")

· a limited number of transitional words that are used

too many times (e.g., “and,” “then,” “but,”, “so,”

· “or,” “for,” “yet,” numbering)

· a structure that is too obvious, almost like a formula.

· details that seem out of order and confuse the

reader.

· an organization that helps the reader in some places

but breaks down in others.

2

The writing lacks a clear organizational structure. An

occasional attempt at organizing is made, but the

writing is difficult to follow and the reader has to

reread large sections. The writing may seem

incomplete. The writing has

· some attempts to organize ideas, but the order does

not make the meaning clear.

· a missing or extremely undeveloped introduction,

body, or conclusion.

· few or no transitions; when present they are

ineffective or overused.

· details are randomly placed; the reader is frequently

confused.

1

The writing doesn’t hold together; the writing seems

Haphazard and disjointed. Even after rereading, the

Reader is still confused. The writing has

· ideas that are not in a clear or logical order.

· no recognizable beginning or ending.

· few or no transitions.

· arrangement and pace of ideas that either drag or

feel rushed.

Voice  - Expressing ideas in an engaging and credible way for audience and purpose

6

The writer has chosen an appropriate voice for the

topic, purpose and audience and shows a deep sense of

involvement with the topic. The writing is interesting

and sincere. The writing has

· an effective level of closeness to the audience or

distance from it (e.g., a narrative should have a

strong personal voice, while a research paper may

require a more objective voice; both should be lively

or interesting).

· an exceptionally strong sense of purpose and

audience.

· a sense that the topic has come to life; when

appropriate, shows use of originality, liveliness,

honesty, conviction, excitement, humor, suspense

and/or use of outside resources.

5

The writer has chosen an appropriate voice for the

topic, purpose and audience and shows involvement

with the topic. The writing is interesting and seems

sincere. The writing has

· an appropriate level of closeness to the audience or

distance from it (e.g., a narrative should have a

strong personal voice, while a researched report may

require a more objective voice; both could be lively

or interesting.)

· a strong sense of purpose and audience.

· a sense that the topic has come to life; when

appropriate, the writing shows originality,

liveliness, honesty, conviction, excitement, humor,

suspense and/or use of outside resources

4

A voice is present, and there is a sense of involvement

With the topic. In places, the writing is interesting and

Seems sincere. The writing has

· a questionable or inconsistent level of closeness or

distance from the audience.

· a sense of purpose and audience but may not use a

consistently appropriate voice.

· originality, liveliness, humor and/or use of outside

resources, when appropriate; however, at times

voice may be too casual or formal.

3

The writer doesn’t seem particularly involved with the

topic or may seem either too personal or too

impersonal. The writing has

· a voice that doesn’t seem to match the topic,

purpose, and audience.

· a limited sense that the paper was written for a

particular audience.

· a sense in places of the writer behind the words;

however, this may shift or disappear a line or two

later.

· limited ability to shift from a casual, informal voice

to one that is more objective when that is necessary.

2

The writing provides little sense of involvement or

evidence of a suitable voice. The writing has

· little or no sense that the writer cares about the

topic; the writing is largely flat, lifeless, stiff, or

mechanical.

· little or no awareness of matching the topic, purpose

and audience.

· little or no sense of the writer behind the words;

there are only a few places where the reader and

writer can feel a connection.

· a voice that is likely to be overly formal or overly

personal.

1

The writing lacks a sense of involvement and a suitable

Voice. The writing has

· no sense that the writer cares about the topic; the

writing is flat, lifeless, stiff, or mechanical.

· no sense that the piece was written for an audience.

· no hint of the writer behind the words; there are few

if any places where the reader feels connected to the

writer. The writing doesn’t get the reader involved.

Word Choice - Selecting functional, precise and descriptive words appropriate for audience and purpose

6

Words communicate the intended message in an

exceptionally interesting, accurate and natural way.

The writer uses a rich, broad range of words that have

been carefully chosen and thoughtfully placed. The

writing has

· accurate, powerful and specific words; word choices

make the writing interesting and lively.

· fresh, original expression; if slang is used, it is for a

reason and works very well.

· vocabulary that has variety and gets noticed but is

also natural and doesn’t seem to be trying to impress

the reader.

· ordinary words used in an unusual way.

· words that create strong pictures in the reader’s

mind; metaphors and similes may be used.

5

Words communicate the intended message in an

interesting, accurate, and natural way. The writer uses

a broad range of words that have been carefully chosen

and thoughtfully placed. The writing has

· accurate, specific words; word choices make the

writing more interesting and lively.

· fresh, clear expression; if slang is used, it is for a

reason and works well.

· vocabulary that may have variety and get noticed but

is also natural and doesn’t seem to be trying to

impress the reader.

· ordinary words used in an unusual way.

· words that create clear pictures in the reader’s mind;

metaphors and similes may be used.

4

Words communicate the intended message. The writer

Uses a variety of words that work and are appropriate

For the topic, audience and purpose. The writing has

· words that work but do not necessarily make the

writing more interesting and lively.

· expression that works; however, slang, if used, does

not always seem to match the purpose or seem

effective.

· some attempts at colorful language; however, they

may occasionally seem overdone.

· rare experiments with language; however, the

writing may have some especially good moments,

and it generally avoids clichés.

3

Language is ordinary. The writer does not use a

variety of words, producing a sort of "generic" paper

with commonly used words and phrases. Words may be

too technical or loaded with jargon. The writing has

· words that work, but that are rarely interesting.

· expression that seems ordinary and general; any

slang is used for a reason and is effective.

· words that are accurate for the most part, although

misused words may sometimes appear.

· attempts at colorful language that do not fit or seem

natural; they seem forced or trying to impress.

· too many clichés and overused expressions.

· overuse or ineffective use of technical jargon.

2

The language is monotonous and/or misused, taking

away from the meaning and impact. The writing has

· words that are flat or not specific enough.

· words or expressions that are either so common or

used so often that they detract from the message.

· images that don’t work because they are not clear or

are absent altogether.

1

The writing shows a limited vocabulary, or is so filled

With words not used correctly that the meaning is

Unclear. Only the most general idea comes through

Because the language is not specific enough. The

Writing has

· general, vague words that do not make the point.

· a small set of words used over and over.

· words that simply do not work; they seem too

general or just plain wrong.

Sentence Fluency - Developing flow and rhythm of sentences

6

The writing has an effective flow that is smooth and

natural. The sentences are put together so they are

consistently varied and interesting. The sentences

make the piece easy and interesting to read. The

writing has

· a natural, fluent sound; it glides along with one

sentence flowing effortlessly into the next.

· extensive variation in sentence lengths, patterns,

and beginnings that make the writing interesting.

· a sentence structure that helps the reader understand

the text by highlighting key ideas and relationships.

· strong control over sentence structure; if fragments

are used at all, they work well.

· natural-sounding dialogue, if dialogue is used at all.

5

The writing has a smooth, natural flow. Sentences are

put together so they are varied and interesting. The

sentences make the piece easy and interesting to read

aloud. The writing has

· a natural, fluent sound; it glides along with one

sentence flowing into the next.

· a variety of sentence lengths, patterns, and

beginnings that make the writing interesting.

· sentence structure that helps the reader understand

the meaning.

· control over sentence structure; if fragments are

used at all, they work well.

· natural-sounding dialogue, if dialogue is used at all.

4

The writing flows; however, connections between

Phrases or sentences may be less than fluid. Sentences

Are somewhat varied, making oral reading easy. The

Writing has

· a natural sound; the reader can move easily through

the piece, although it may lack a sense of rhythm.

· some repeated sentence lengths, patterns and

beginnings that detract somewhat from overall

impact.

· strong control over simple sentences; less control

over more complex sentences. If fragments are used

at all, they are usually effective.

· dialogue, if used at all, that usually sounds natural

but can sound artificial.

3

The writing tends to be choppy rather than smooth.

Sometimes awkward constructions force the reader to

slow down or reread. The writing has

· some passages that are easy to read aloud and some

that are choppy.

· some variety in sentence lengths, patterns, and

beginnings, although a few are used repeatedly.

· simple sentence used correctly, but more complex

sentences may have problems; if fragments are used,

they may not be effective.

· sentences that are correct, but are not very

interesting or appealing .

· dialogue that may not sound unnatural or not true-to-

life, if it is used .

2

The writing tends to be choppy or rambling. Awkward

construction often forces the reader to slow down and

reread. The writing has

· large portions of the text that are difficult to follow

or read aloud.

· sentence patterns that are monotonous (e.g., subject-verb

or subject-verb-object).

· a large number of awkward, choppy, or rambling

sentence structures.

1

The writing is difficult to follow or to read aloud.

Sentences tend to be choppy, incomplete, rambling, or

Just very awkward. The writing has

· sentences that may be hard to real aloud easily.

· confusing word order that often makes the meaning

hard to follow.

· sentence patterns that frequently make meaning

unclear.

· sentences that are fragmented, confusing, choppy, or

rambling on and on.

Conventions - Demonstrating knowledge of spelling, grammar, punctuation, capitalization, usage, paragraphing

6

The writing demonstrates mastery of a variety of

standard conventions, even in complex and less

common situations. Errors, if any, are not obvious or

significant. The writing has

· correct use of punctuation, including commas, semi-colons,

apostrophes and colons, in a variety of

situations to add meaning.

· correct spelling, even of difficult words.

· paragraphing that strengthens the impact and

organization.

· correct capitalization.

· correct grammar and usage that contribute to clarity

and style.

· skill in using a wide range of conventions in a

sufficiently long and complex piece.

· little or no need for editing.

5

The writing demonstrates strong control of standard

conventions which effectively contribute to the message

Errors are so few and so minor that they do not

distract the reader. The writing has

· correct grammar and usage.

· sound paragraphing.

· effective use of punctuation.

· correct spelling, even of difficult words.

· few capitalization errors.

· skill in using a wide range of conventions in a

sufficiently long and complex piece.

· little need for editing.

4

The writing demonstrates competent handling of

standard conventions. Minor errors are distracting but

not confusing. The writing has

· correct end-of-sentence punctuation; minor and very

few or no instances of confusion with commas,

semi-colons, apostrophes or colons.

· common or key words spelled correctly.

· paragraph breaks that are logically placed.

· correct capitalization; errors, if any, are in

uncommon cases.

· occasionally incorrect grammar and usage; problems

do not confuse or change the meaning.

· a need for some minor editing.

3

The writing show a limited control of standard

conventions. Errors begin to interfere with readability.

The writing has

· errors in grammar, usage, and capitalization that do

not block meaning but do distract the reader.

· paragraphs that sometimes run together or begin at

ineffective points.

· end-of-sentence punctuation that is usually correct,

but internal punctuation contains frequent errors.

· spelling errors that distract the reader; misspelling

of common words sometimes occurs.

· some control over basic conventions, but the text is

too simple or too short to show mastery.

· a significant need for editing.

2

The writing shows little understanding of standard

conventions. Errors often distract and confuse the

reader, requiring the reader to reread passages. The

writing has

· many places where punctuation is left out or

incorrect.

· frequent spelling errors, even of common words.

· random paragraph indentations or none at all.

· many capitalization errors, including sentence

beginnings and names.

· errors in grammar and usage that confuse the reader

or change the meaning or are inappropriate for

audience and purpose.

· a need for major revisions and corrections.

1

Numerous errors in conventions repeatedly distract the

reader and make the writing difficult to read. The

writing has

· very limited skill in using conventions.

· punctuation (including ends of sentences) that tends

to be omitted, haphazard, or incorrect.

· frequent spelling errors that significantly interfere

with readability.

· paragraphing that may be irregular or absent.

· capitalization that appears to be random.

· a need for extensive editing.

Note Cards

4

3

2

1

SOURCE 1

Source Cards

* source letter in corner

* all required information on card

* card was colored

* source letter in corner

* most of required information on card

*source letter may be present

* some of required information present

* no source letter

* little or no information present

SOURCE 1

Information Cards (white cards)

*source letter in corner of all cards

*page number in the corner of each card

*cards are colored

* only one piece of information on all cards

*source letter in corner of most cards

* page number in the corner of most cards

* only one piece of information on card

*source letter in corner of some cards

* page number in corner of some cards

*more than one piece of information on cards

*either source letter or page number omitted

*more than one piece of information on most cards

SOURCE 2

Source Cards

* source letter in corner

* all required information on card

* card was colored

* source letter in corner

* most of required information on card

*source letter may be present

* some of required information present

* no source letter

* little or no information present

SOURCE 2

Information Cards (white cards)

*source letter in corner of all cards

*page number in the corner of each card

*cards are colored

* only one piece of information on all cards

*source letter in corner of most cards

* page number in the corner of most cards

* only one piece of information on card

*source letter in corner of some cards

* page number in corner of some cards

*more than one piece of information on cards

*either source letter or page number omitted

*more than one piece of information on most cards

SOURCE 3

Source Cards

* source letter in corner

* all required information on card

* card was colored

* source letter in corner

* most of required information on card

*source letter may be present

* some of required information present

* no source letter

* little or no information present

SOURCE 3

Information Cards (white cards)

*source letter in corner of all cards

*page number in the corner of each card

*cards are colored

* only one piece of information on all cards

*source letter in corner of most cards

* page number in the corner of most cards

* only one piece of information on card

*source letter in corner of some cards

* page number in corner of some cards

*more than one piece of information on cards

*either source letter or page number omitted

*more than one piece of information on most cards

SOURCE 4

Source Cards

* source letter in corner

* all required information on card

* card was colored

* source letter in corner

* most of required information on card

*source letter may be present

* some of required information present

* no source letter

* little or no information present

SOURCE 4

Information Cards (white cards)

*source letter in corner of all cards

*page number in the corner of each card

*cards are colored

* only one piece of information on all cards

*source letter in corner of most cards

* page number in the corner of most cards

* only one piece of information on card

*source letter in corner of some cards

* page number in corner of some cards

*more than one piece of information on cards

*either source letter or page number omitted

*more than one piece of information on most cards

SOURCE 5

Source Cards

* source letter in corner

* all required information on card

* card was colored

* source letter in corner

* most of required information on card

*source letter may be present

* some of required information present

* no source letter

* little or no information present

SOURCE 5

Information Cards (white cards)

*source letter in corner of all cards

*page number in the corner of each card

*cards are colored

* only one piece of information on all cards

*source letter in corner of most cards

* page number in the corner of most cards

* only one piece of information on card

*source letter in corner of some cards

* page number in corner of some cards

*more than one piece of information on cards

*either source letter or page number omitted

*more than one piece of information on most cards

TOTAL POINTS

3 -Dimensional Map

4

3

2

1

Required Components

Required Components

Has all the required components

Is missing one of the required components

Is missing two through five of the required components

Has less than 3 of the required components

*mountains

*rivers

* major city marked

Neatness

* the boundaries are neat and recognizable.

* attention was paid to detail

* most boundaries are neat and recognizable

* for the most part, attention was paid to detail

*some boundaries are neat and recognizable

* some attention was paid to detail

*few or none of the boundaries are neat or recognizable

* little or no attention was paid to detail

Creativity

*unique interruption of  2-D model

* interesting use of materials to complete the assignment

* interpretation of 2-D model is good

* used materials in a traditional way to complete the assignment

*interpretation of 2-D model is okay

* used materials to complete the assignment

*little or no interpretation of the 2-D model

* there was an attempt made at completing the assignment

3- D Form

(degree of relief)

* all of the land forms are definitely evident

* there is a distinction between the mountains, plateaus, rivers, valleys

* most of the landforms are evident (75%)

* some of the landforms are evident (50%)

* very few or none of the land forms are evident (<50%)

TOTAL POINTS

Posters

4

3

2

1

Required Components

Required Components

All required components present

One required component missing

Two required components missing

More than two required components missing

* name of state

* map of state

* map of US with state colored

*5 pictures about state

Neatness

*name is easy to read

* pictures are clear and understandable

* the layout is well thought out

* the poster is visually appealing to the eye

* parts of the poster can be seen from a distance

* it is organized

* the poster is somewhat cluttered in appearance

* parts of the poster can be seen from a distance

* organization was not thought out

* can not be seen from a distance

Word Arrangement

*word is arranged in an interesting way (arched, diagonally, curved, vertical)

* word is present, but presentation is traditional

* word is present

*word may or may not be present

* illegible

Focal Point

* one focal point is established based on content or subject

* one element is emphasized

* focal point is established

* focal point is vague in sections

* no specific focus

* haphazard arrangement

Composition

(repeating colors, symmetry, asymmetry, patterns)

* a definite form of composition is evident

* some form of composition is evident

*very little form of composition is evident

* no form of composition is evident

TOTAL POINTS

Power Point Presentation

4

3

2

1

Required Components

State Research Project – Title Page

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

State name

Picture of state

Basic Background

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Population

Capital

State Insignia

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

flag

bird

mineral

song (words and music if you can find it)

animal

flower

tree

motto

nickname

drink (beverage)

Power Point Presentation

4

3

2

1

Required Components

History

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

historic sites

statehood – what year did the state gain statehood

early settlements

what origin were the people who originally settled the area

famous inventions made in the state

why is the state named its name

Land and Resources (Environment) Geography

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Land and Resources (Environment)

rivers and lakes

geography

climate

vegetation

wildlife

resources – what are the natural resources?

List any National and State Parks your state has

Maps of the state, including one map of the counties

Any pictures of the state’s land forms or regions

Power Point Presentation

4

3

2

1

Required Components

Education

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Education

What are the universities in the state

How is the education system set up

People

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Famous person from the state

What is the person famous for

Give some basic background about the person

Economy

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Manufacturing and industry (top 5 industries)

Careers (the top 5 hottest careers in the state, plus their salary ranges)

Power Point Presentation

4

3

2

1

Required Components

Entertainment

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Tourism

What are some places to visit in the state

If you were a tourist in your state, where would you like to visit

Sports teams

Museums

Government & Politics

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the require information

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

Structure – how is the government set up

List of all the governors

Who currently is in charge of the state

Governor

State representatives

National Representatives

Current Events

All required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Almost all required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand

Some of required information present

Visually – easy to read and understand, but not in all sections

Very little or none of the required information present

Visually – may be difficult to read in some sections

Have the titled slide

One event that has currently happened in the state

Power Point Presentation

4

3

2

1

Required Components

Works Cited

All information is present

All information is typed in the correct format

Almost all  required information is present

Almost all information is typed in the correct format

Some of the required information is present

Some information is typed in the correct format

Very little or none of the required information present

Basically obtaining credit for having the titled slide

All sources are listed on this slide in the correct works cited format

Author’s Page

The student’s name is present

There is some added detail present about some aspect of the student

The detail is interesting and informative

The student’s name is present

There is some added detail present about some aspect of the student

The student’s name is present

Another piece of information is present

The student’s name is present

The student tells about himself

Knowledge of Power Point Program

Some animation may be present – but it does not distract from the slide(s)

One section shows an advanced knowledge of the program

Some animation may be present- but it does not distract from the slide

One section shows an advanced knowledge of the program

Some animation may be present but it does distract from the slide

No advanced knowledge of the program

No animation or advanced understanding of the power point program

No advanced knowledge of the program

The student used his knowledge of power point to make the presentation visually interesting

English Language Usage

Less than three mistakes using the English Language

More than three but less than 7 using the English Language

More than 7 but less than 11 mistakes using the English Language

More than 11 mistakes using the English Language

TOTAL POINTS

Point Value

Criteria

5

• Includes accurate and relevant information about New York, taken from the documents and from additional knowledge of the topic
• Addresses all aspects of the question by analyzing most of the documents
• Demonstrates an understanding of the evidence
• Supports the essay with accurate facts and examples about the influence of New York
• Shows excellent organization, including a strong introduction and conclusion
• Correct English usage with no serious errors

4

• Includes mostly accurate and relevant information about New York, using most of the documents and some additional knowledge of the topic
• Addresses most aspects of the question
• Demonstrates an understanding of the evidence
• Supports the essay with mostly accurate facts and examples about New York
• Show good organization, including a good introduction and conclusion
• Few errors in English usage, with none that distract from meaning

3

• Includes generally accurate and relevant information about some aspects of New York’s influence, using some documents but little or no additional knowledge of the topic
• Addresses some aspects of the question
• Demonstrates an adequate understanding of the evidence
• Includes some factual errors about New York’s influence or history
• Restates the theme in the introduction and concludes with a simple restatement of the question
• May include some errors in English usage, but meaning can be understood

2

• Includes minimal information about New York, using few documents and little or no additional knowledge
• Shows little recognition of the different aspects of the question
• Demonstrates little understanding of the evidence
• Includes factual errors about New York State
• Restates the contents of documents
• Has vague or missing introduction and/or conclusion
• Includes several errors in English usage, which distract from understanding

1

• Mixes accurate, inaccurate, and/or irrelevant information about New York
• Refers to the topic in a confused manner
• Shows little or no recognition of the different aspects of the question
• Demonstrates little of no understanding of the evidence
• Fails to use or only vaguely refers to the documents
• Has no introduction or conclusion
• Includes many errors in English usage
• Portions of the essay cannot be read or understood

0

• Fails to address the question
• No response
• Blank paper

Day 1:

Initiating Activity (Launch):

USA game and State Treasure Hunt

Day 2:

Requirements of the project

Information possibilities and note taking

Day 3:

Continue Information possibilities and note taking

Day 4:

Continue Information possibilities and note taking

Day 5:

Reliability of the internet sources mini-lesson

Day 6:

Review of Power Point commands 

Day 7:

Sorting of Note Cards

Day 8:

Work on requirements

Day 9:

Work on requirements

Day 10:

Work on requirements

Day 11:

Work on requirements

Day 12:

Work on requirements

Day 13:

Work on requirements

Day 14:

Work on requirements

Day 15:

Work on requirements

Day 16:

Work on requirements

Day 17:

Work on requirements

Day 18:

Oral Presentations

Day 19:

Oral Presentations

Day 20:

States Fair

Day 1:

USA Map Pre-Test

Day 2:

Document Based Question DBQ about New York

Day 3:

Document Based Question

DBQ about New York (continued)

Day 4:

New York State Station activity

Day 5:

Completion of Venn Diagram comparing New York State to “their” state

Day 6:

Work on requirements

Day 7:

Work on requirements

Day 8:

Work on requirements

Day 9:

Work on requirements

Day 10:

Work on requirements

Day 11:

Work on requirements

Day 12:

Work on requirements

Day 13:

Work on requirements

Day 14:

Work on requirements

Day 15:

Work on requirements

Day 16:

Work on requirements

Day 17:

Work on requirements

Day 18:

Oral Presentations

Day 19:

Oral Presentations

Day 20:

USA Map Test

USA game using the students Trivia Questions

Number

Question

Answer

1

During the Civil War, which was not a Union state? New York, Minnesota, Virginia

Virginia

2

The year: 1895. The place: Ohio.  The vehicles involved: the only two cars in that state.  What happened?

They collided.

3

In 1959, which two states were admitted to the US?

Alaska and Hawaii

4

What state is closest to Russia?

Alaska

5

What famous 1770 Massachusetts skirmish began as a snowball fight?

The Boston Massacre

6

What state is the home of the United Nations?

New York

7

What important water route from the Hudson River to Lake Erie was completed in 1825?

Erie Canal

8

What was the first state to ratify the Constitution on December 7, 1787?

Delaware

9

What are the largest sculptures in North America?

The presidents on Mt Rushmore

10

Which was not one of the thirteen original colonies? Georgia, Vermont, New Jersey

Vermont

11

Name three of the four presidents depicted on Mt. Rushmore.

Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, T. Roosevelt

12

The first successful airplane flight was made in 1903 at Kitty Hawk.  In what state is Kitty Hawk?

North Carolina

13

Name the oldest and largest American national park.

Yellowstone National Park

14

What state’s name means “flowery” in Spanish?

Florida

15

Name two of the three states with only four letters in their names.

Iowa, Ohio, Utah

16

In which direction would you travel to go from New Mexico to Arizona?

West

17

In what states are Disneyland and Disney World?

Florida and California

18

After Alaska, what US state is the largest in area?

Texas

19

What is the only US state named for a president?

Washington

20

What is the only state flag that is not a square or a rectangle?

Ohio

21

What is the capital of Rhode Island?

Providence

22

What is the capital of New York?

Albany

23

What city was the first capital of the United States?

New York City

24

What state’s name means “Land of the Indians”?

Indiana

25

Name three of the four states that begin with the word “New”.

New York, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New Mexico

26

What is the special name given to the boundary between Maryland and Pennsylvania?

Mason-Dixon Line

27

What are the five Great Lakes?

Superior, Ontario, Erie, Michigan, Huron

28

Name the only Great Lake that is named after a state.

Michigan

29

The five Great Lakes are Superior, Ontario, Erie, Michigan, and Huron.  Use the first letter of each to create a word that will help you remember all their names.

HOMES

30

What state, nicknamed the “Gem State”, is better known for its potatoes?

Idaho

31

In what state does Mount Saint Helen’s erupt?

Washington

32

Name four of the five states with shores on the Pacific Ocean.

California, Oregon, Washington, Alaska, Hawaii

33

Name the only Great Lake entirely in the United States.

Michigan

34

In what state would you find parishes instead of counties?

Louisiana

35

In what state is Fort Knox?

Kentucky

36

Name the largest inland navigation system in North America.

St. Lawrence Seaway

37

In what state did the Union Pacific and Central Pacific Railroads link tracks on May 10, 1869?

Utah (Promontory, Utah)

38

Name four of the six New England states.

Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont

39

What is the oldest US city? Saint Augustine, Boston, Philadelphia

Saint Augustine

40

Name four of the five states which names begin with compass directions.

North and South Carolina, North and South Dakota, West Virginia

41

What is the only state ending in “ing”?

Wyoming

42

What is the only one syllable state name?

Maine

43

Identify three of the four states that begin and end with the same letter.

Ohio, Arizona, Alabama, Alaska

44

Where is baseball’s Tiger Stadium?

Detroit, Michigan

45

Alphabetically, what state comes after Indiana?

Iowa

46

What state has no official nickname?

Alaska

47

What is the state beverage of eleven states?

Milk

48

Name the capital of Florida.

Tallahassee

49

Where is the Baseball Hall of Fame?

Cooperstown, NY

50

What state is the home of three halls of fame?

New York  (Baseball, Soccer, Boxing)

51

What state has the motto “Eureka” (I have found it)?

California

52

What city is farthest east: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; Washington, DC; or Hartford, Connecticut?

Hartford, Connecticut

53

What highway is farther north: interstate 80 or interstate 10?

Interstate 80

54

Name the state largest in population.

California

55

Name the state largest in area.

Alaska

56

In what state could you visit Arlington, Richmond, and Norfolk?

Virginia

57

Alphabetically, what state comes just before New Mexico?

New Jersey

58

In what city could you see the World Trade Center, Rockefeller Center, and Hotel Pierre?

New York city

59

In what direction must you go to travel from Colorado to Kansas?

East

60

What river is nicknamed “Old Man River”?

Mississippi

61

What are McIntosh, northern spy, and golden delicious and is New York state’s fruit?

Apples

62

What is the home of the Gateway Arch?

St. Louis

63

In what state would you find “General Sherman”, a giant sequoia tree?

California

64

Frederick L. Olmsted designed what important open space in New York City?

Central Park

65

What country borders the US to the north?

Canada

66

What country borders the US to the south?

Mexico

67

What state is completely surrounded by water?

Hawaii

68

What state has the most US presidents been born in?

Virginia

69

In what state was the second capital of the US located?

Pennsylvania

70

In what state is the mouth of the Mississippi River located?

Louisiana

Was born in a state other than New York

Has visited a state in the southern part of the country

Has visited New York City

Has visited the state capital

Has visited the National Capital, Washington DC

Has visited a state on the Pacific coast

Has visited the Adirondack State Park (Mountains)

Has learned something about another state via the internet

Has visited a state that has the letter “A” in the state’s spelling

Has visited a National Monument

Has read a newspaper from another state

Has traveled west of the Mississippi

Has visited a state that borders New York State

Has a friend who lives in another state

Has a family member living in another state

Spends the summer in another state

Item:

Date Due:

Note card 1

Note card 2

Note card 3

Note card 4

Note card 5

Power point presentation

Map

Trivia questions

Big Mac Essay

Display/Poster

Email a state representative

States Fair

A

Nash, Gary B.  American Odyssey: The United States in the Twentieth Century.  Columbus, OH: Glencoe MacMillan/McGraw-Hill, 1992.

A                                                                        28

Government:

3 branches: Legislative, Executive, Judicial

Creating a Presentation

If you want to.

Press the following keys

Start a new presentation

Ctrl

N

Open an existing presentation

Ctrl

O

Save a presentation

Ctrl

S

Display the help contents screen

F1

Display context-sensitive help

Shift

F1

Undo

Ctrl

Z

Print

Ctrl

P

Working on Slides

If you want to.

Press the following keys

Create a new slide

Ctrl

M

Add the date

Alt

Shift

D

Add a page number

Alt

Shift

P

Add the time

Alt

Shift

T

Show guides

Ctrl

G

Select all

Ctrl

A

Move to the next object

Tab

Move to the previous object

Shift

Tab

Move from title to text

Ctrl

Enter

Working on an Outline

If you want to.

Press the following keys

Promote a paragraph

Alt

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¬

Demote a paragraph

Alt

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®

Expand text under a heading

Alt

Shift

+

Collapse text under a heading

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Show all text and headings

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A

Using controls during a slide show

If you want to.

Press the following keys

Make the screen black

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Make the screen white

W

Pointing or writing on a slide

If you want to.

Press the following keys

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S

Change the pointer to a pen

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Erase drawing on the screen

E

Moving between slides

If you want to.

Press the following keys

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Return to the previous slide

Backspace key

Go to a particular slide

Type the slide number and press enter

Go to the next slide if it’s hidden

H

Return to the first slide

Hold and press both mouse buttons for two seconds

People

Current Event

Basic Background

(Symbols)

History

Entertainment

Geography (Land & Resources)  Environment

Economy

Government & Politics

Works Cited

Education

Question

Answer

1

What is the capital of New York?

Albany

2

In what city is the United Nations located?

New York City

3

In what city is the state fair?

Syracuse

4

What two Great Lakes border New York?

Erie, Ontario

5

What ocean borders New York?

Atlantic

6

Who is the current governor of New York?

George Pataki

7

From where did the United States get the Statue of Liberty?

France

8

How many presidents were from New York?

4

9

Was New York one of the original 13 colonies?

Yes

10

Name the five states that border New York.

Vermont, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey

11

Name two of the five Iroquois Indian nations.

Seneca, Cayuga, Onondaga, Oneida, Mohawk

12

In what county is Owen D. Young Central located?

Herkimer

13

How many counties are in New York?

62

14

Name New York’s state beverage.

Milk

15

Name the three sports hall of fames located in New York.

Baseball, soccer, boxing

16

Name New York’s state bird.

Bluebird

17

What is New York state’s nickname?

The Empire State

18

What is New York City’s nickname?

The Big Apple

19

What country does New York border?

Canada

20 

What is the state flower?

Rose

21

What are the five bourghs of New York City?

Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, Manhattan

22

Name two of the four presidents from New York.

Teddy Roosevelt, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Filmore, VanBuren

23

In what town is the Baseball Hall of Fame located?

Cooperstown

24

In what town is the Soccer Hall of Fame located?

Oneonta

25

What Challenger astronaut grew up in Mohawk?

Greg Jarvis

26

What are New York’s two professional baseball teams?

Yankees, Mets

27

What is the longest river in New York?

Hudson (300 miles)

28

Mount Marcy is the highest peak in New York.  Of what mountain range is it part?

Adirondack

29

What New York city was the first capital of the United States?

New York City

30

“The New York Post” is the oldest running newspaper in the country.  What famous New Yorker, who also served as the first Secretary of the Treasury, established this newspaper?

Alexander Hamilton

31

What is New York’s largest lake?

Oneida

32

Which  New York city has the only stop light in the country where the green is on the top?

Syracuse

33

Was New York the first state to require license plates on cars?

Yes

34

Which high schools auditorium had the first ever showing of the film Dracula?

Owen D. Young Central

35

What famous governor of New York gave the first commencement address at Owen D. Young Central?

Franklin D. Roosevelt

36

Yes or no: Does New York have over 70,000 miles of rivers and streams?

Yes

37

Yes or no:  Was the first state park created in New York also the first in the United States?

Yes (Niagara Reservation)

38

Name the two houses of the state legislature.

Senate, assembly

39

How many members are in the State Senate?

61

40

Who runs the meetings of the state senate?

Lieutenant governor

41

How many members does the state assembly have?

150

42

Who runs the assembly meetings?

Speaker

43

How is the Speaker of the Assembly chosen?

Elected by the assembly

44

How long are senators and assemblymen’s terms?

2 years

45

How long of a term does the governor of New York serve?

4 years

46

Which city was the first capital of the state?

New York City

47

In what year did Albany become the capital of New York state?

1809

48

What was the first centralized school district in the state of New York?

Owen D. Young Central

49

In what year was the first state constitution adopted?

1777

50

Which explorer “discovered” the Hudson river valley region?

Henry Hudson

51

What is the New York state tree?

Sugar maple

52

Name the 3 professional football teams in New York State.

Bills, Giants, Jets

53

Name the 3 professional hockey teams in New York state.

Rangers, Islanders, Sabers

54

Name the only WNBA team in New York.

Lady Liberty

55

Name the only place, which happens to be in New York State, that has held the Olympics twice.

Lake Placid

56

Before New York was named New York, what was its original name?

New Amsterdam

57

How many boroughs are there in New York City?

5

58

What is the geographic central point of New York State?

Madison

59

Why was New York originally settled?

As a trading post

60

Francis Scott Key, originally from Rome, NY, wrote what famous song?

The Star Spangled Banner

61

What was built in New York in the early 1800s to help with trading and transportation?

Erie Canal