Looking back at the 2012-2013 school year, we accomplished and took part in many awesome activities. One activity that cannot be overlooked was our trip to The Bronx Zoo.  What an amazing experience!  I know I was so impressed with the students’ inquiry with wanting to learn more about the animals.  Their enthusiasm was contagious.  Below is a video highlighting some of animals and sights of the trip.

Now, our zoo experience did not end there.  Students then took part in an inquiry mini project.  The project was to collaborate with classmates using information gained from the trip and research in order to decide whether it is humane to hold animals in captivity.  The culminating activity was for students  to participate in a homeroom debate.  In each of the students’ classes they research different aspects of the project:

Social Studies:  watch videos on the topic and took notes

Math:  analyzed photographs taken from the trip

Science:  researched the pros and cons of zoos

Reading/Language Arts:  Close read articles on the pros and cons of zoos

Once research was accomplished- students collaborated with each other in small groups.  They filled out a discussion web.  After the discussion, students were able to make informed an decision about whether they were for or against zoos.  Many students who were once for zoos, were against them after researching.  Overall, students were split 50/50 on the issue.  Once the students picked a position and created their claim, they compiled reasons and evidence to support their claim in order to prepare for the debate.  The debate and project were a success.

Through this project students utilized 21st Century Learning Skills:  creativity, innovation, communication, collaboration, problem solving and critical thinking skills. 

Below are some images of the debate- four students were in the center of the room (2 for and 2 against the issue).  As the debate went on and students wanted to add onto discussion, they would tap teammates on the shoulder and enter the debate to add onto to what was being said or rebut points made.  All students got a chance to participate and truly listened to each other’s perspectives.