Due to the amount of research, group collaboration, and creativity required for this project, this WebQuest would best be suited for fifth grade students.

Students will need the following entry level skills and knowledge:

Knowledge of what a culture is

Familiarity with African Culture

Familiarity with Amish Culture

Familiarity with Native American Culture

Comfortable with the World Wide Web

 

Through their participation in this WebQuest, students will expand their knowledge of other cultures.  The sites we have chosen for students to read and share with their groups give them a better idea of the specific culture and its traditions and beliefs.  In order for a student to share the information he/she has read about with the rest of his/her group, the student must have fully comprehended the information.

This project enhances  additional skills, such as working cooperatively in a group, individual responsibility during the research period (each student must complete his/her portion of the research in order for the group to continue), and applying what has been learned in a creative manner.

The WebQuest requires students to practice their skills navigating the Internet.  Each member of the group is given different URL addresses, must find the correct sites, and gather pertinent information.  There is an Online dictionary for those students inclined to use it.  This encourages students to use the resources Online as well as providing them the opportunity to become familiar with such resources.
 

The following Virginia Standards of Learning are addressed in this WebQuest:

English
5.1 The student will listen, draw conclusions, and share responses in subject-related group learning activities.

Participate in and contribute to discussions across content areas.

Organize information to present reports of group activities.

Summarize information gathered in group activities.

5.6 The student will demonstrate comprehension of a variety of literary forms.

Prioritize information according to purpose of reading.

Write about what is read.

5.8 The student will synthesize information from a variety of resources.

Skim materials to develop a general overview of content or to locate specific information.

Develop notes that include important concepts, paraphrases, summaries, and identification of information resources.

Use available electronic databases to access information.

Computer/Technology
C/T5.2 The student will develop basic technology skills.

Develop a basic technology vocabulary that includes cursor, software, memory, disk drive, hard drive, and CD-ROM

Select and use technology appropriate to tasks.

Operate peripheral devices.

Apply technologies to strategies for problem solving and critical thinking.

C/T5.4 The student will communicate through application software.

Create a 1-2 page document using word processing skills, writing process steps, and publishing programs.

Use local and worldwide network communication systems.