CDP Lesson on the Galapagos Islands

Mathematical Ocean #1

Age Level: Middle School

Time: 1 Hour

Content Area: Math, Language Arts

Concepts: Compare and contrast, Venn diagrams, the ability to write a story problem

Objective:This lesson was created so that the students are exposed to the similarities that their animals have with other animals that inhibit the islands, while still getting exposure to Venn diagrams and writing word problems that have to deal with Venn diagrams.

Procedure: From the information that the students have gathered, have the students create a list of characteristics that their animal possesses. Items could include (but are not limited to) lives in water, eats algae, is about 2 feet long, etc. Then, students should compare the differences and similarities that their animals have. Next, the students should create a Venn diagram of the characteristics that the animals might have. Finally, have the pairs write their own story problem using Venn diagrams. (see example of a Venn diagram)

Extensions:

• Students can switch with another person and create another diagram
  
  
• Have students get together in three's and create a Venn diagram using all three animals

Assessment: Students will be assessed by using the observation rubric, along with the Mathematical rubric. To be successful, students must achieve a 5 on the Observation rubric and at least improvements in 4 areas of the Mathematical Rubric.