As part of their science curriculum, students in Ms. Alyson Bull’s and Mr. Bill Stewart’s classroom were presented a design challenge in November. Working in teams, the students needed to create interesting and engaging picture books appropriate for Grades 3 and up on earth science topics exploring the atmosphere, hydrosphere and geosphere. Students needed to create high quality, informative, non-fiction picture books about the planet Earth to meet the new 2012 Common Core Standards for Teaching and Learning. As a further challenge, the illustrations, graphics and photographs had to be original. To be successful the teams, needed to collaborate and fairly divide the tasks involved in designing their picture book. Lastly, the team had to be prepared to “pitch” their non-fiction picture book to an editing team of experts in the field by the February 1, 2013 deadline. Their beautiful completed works are below. Tremendous amount of work but the students worked together and produced high quality publications. A project that clearly prepares students for the 21st Century Student Outcomes: Learning and Innovation Skills, Information, Media and Technology Skills, and Life and Career Skills.

Glaciers by Giselle, Isabel and Stella

Lithosphere by Rachel, Dante and Max

Global Warming by Henry, Emma, Emilio, and Mateo

Tsunami by Yacine, Jayde, and Nehemiah

Volcano by Fernando, Noa and Riley

Lightning by Alice, Ian, Joseph and Mae

Hurricanes by Spencer, Jennie, Noah and Elijah

Precipitation by Sophie, Emily and Gavin

Ocean Layers by Alana, Gaelen and Willa

Clouds by Arlo, Drey, Elias, and Olivia Karin Gravina