We are currently working on mathematics collaboration born out of concern over the weighty backpacks students must carry. Students calculate the average weight of backpacks, research health and associated issues to find out what the ideal weight might be based on student's grade level, size, book size, and current medical advice. Students will present their recommendations formally to administrators and school board members. Students will use e-mail, fax, and interviews to glean expert medical opinion to make their case. Elementary students can make effective use of the media center in creating a science-rich butterfly garden.
Research is selected from print, audiovisual, and computer resources.
The local garden club provides valuable assistance and information to the class. Soil samples are examined, local butterflies identified, and plants chosen for their ability to attract butterflies. The result is a carefully researched and beautiful garden to encourage butterflies to school grounds. It also helps student with underpinning knowledge for SOLs and understanding of the Information Literacy Standards. To make collaboration effective, the structure of the media center must be supportive.