War of the (Animal) Worlds

 

 

Subject: Biology                                                           Grade Level: 9th-1o grade

 

 

INTRODUCTION:

 

Congratulations on being one the few proud scientists selected to try to save the world as we know it.   Earth has recently encountered a new breed of animal previously unknown to man.  This new species has successfully taken over entire communities because of their one special attribute.  These species are highly camouflaged and have only been partially seen in a few rare occasions.  These insects must be stopped before they continue to reproduce and take over the world.  The fate of the world is in your hands.

 

 

 

TASK:

 

Your task is to successfully categorize the new species of animal, find its weaknesses, and come up with an original way/invention to stop this terror from destroying mankind. 

 

 

 

PROCESS:

 

  1. Read the few eyewitness accounts to find insects physical and behavioral traits.
  2. After finding overall patterns/traits, classify animal into already existing order.
  3. Read more of the eyewitness accounts again and try to come up with habits and/or reasons of the animals attacking.
  4. Use the information found to hypothesize a way of stopping this animal.
  5. Present in front of the class your findings in a creative fun way.

 

 

 

RESOURCES:

 

The following resources could be useful to your task. 

1.     Eyewitness Accounts (click on it)

2.     www.Animaldiversity.ummx.umich.edu

3.     Any search engine to find website on how to eliminate ‘em (there are plenty)!

 

 

 

EVALUATION:

 

 

 

 

0-2.5 Pts

2.5-5 Pts

5-7.5 Pts

7.5-10 Pts

Characteristics

None, or poorly described, way off base

Somewhat described, varies in accuracy

Well described, good detail, nearly perfect in accuracy

Superb description, perfect detail, and great accuracy

Animal Order

None, or correct kingdom only

Correct kingdom, and phylum

Right kingdom, phylum, and class

Correct, kingdom, phylum, class, and order

Plan of Attack

None, or poorly organized, wouldn’t work in stopping animal.

Not very organized, irrational, doesn’t relate, unoriginal idea

Somewhat organized, some holes in description, but overall good.

Perfect organization, planning description, original idea

Presentation

Highly unorganized, whisper presentation, poor clarity

Lacking organization, poor body language, soft voice

Good clarity, ok body language, moderate voice

Great voice projection, clarity, body language

 

 

Final Grade:        /40 pts total

 

 

CONCLUSION:

 

 

Thank you for your help in saving the world.  Today you have learned about classifying animals, as well as learning what it is like when exotic species (zebra mussels, quagga mussels) enter into an ecosystem and take over.  The world is safe, For NOW….