Take a cell-fie, create a rap or a song, create a cell organelle video, or design a cell board game.
What excellent project choices to end a 6th grade Science unit on cells. These project options definitely foster creativity and innovation that will show students' understanding of the basic components and functions of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems -- an Iowa Core 6th Grade Science Standard.
Students had fun using technology (cell phones, computer webcams, iPads, and video editing apps) to reach the learning outcomes of the project. 6th Grade teacher Mrs. Radig wanted all of her students to understand the function of each organelle in animal and plant cells, create a better understanding of how these organelles work together to help the cell function properly, as well as be responsible for the health of the entire individual.
Mrs. Radig's project criteria for each option was stupendous.
Rap or song
Include facts about at least 6 organelles
Have some sort of rhythm, make sense, have actions, and all group members must sing/rap on camera
Words memorized and the rap at least 30 seconds
Each individual designs a colorful CD cover about their rap
Cell-fie -
An album created using either their cell phone, computer webcam, or school iPad to visualize the cell parts.
Construct analogies by taking pictures of everyday objects and relate to cell terminology
Each organelle has its own page that contains the analogous picture and an explanation connecting the relationship
Cell Organelle Commerciall/Movie
Design a visually appealing short video to either sell their cell or create interest in their cell and its organelles.
1-4 minutes long and humor and creativity were encouraged.
Each student in the group needs to appear and speak on camera
At least 6 of the organelles had to be featured.
Haunted Hospital of Organelles
Cell Board Game
Collaboration suggested
Student agency in board game of choice
Requirement of at least 60 questions for their game about all the organelles and cells in general.
Variety in questions combining multiple choice, true/false, and fill in the blank questions.
A rules sheet
Design a colorful game board.
Observations From Mrs. Radig
"The students learned a lot of lessons about planning, working together as a team, technology, and writing a script while they learned about the cell and its parts. I know they also had fun doing their projects. We look forward to seeing them published on YouTube. A big thank you to Mrs. Oehlertz for all her hard work with the students and the iPads. Without her, this project would not have been a success!"
Thanks 6th Grade for integrating technology into your cell unit! You not only created videos. You shared your learning with the world - which raised awareness and started conversations.
Well done Mrs. Radig and 6th Grade Science students!