This project is designed to supplement a 5 th grade science unit on cells. However, the challenges are appropriate for older students as well. It is not designed to lead students to any pre-determined conclusions other than washing hands is necessary for good hygiene. Instead, there are opportunities for students to look at different sides of an issue, to evaluate information, and to express opinions based on their understanding of the facts as presented.
Students learn by visiting a variety of Internet sites and answering guided questions.
Each site has its own reasons for providing information on the Internet, and students are prompted to analyze intent. Along the way students investigate bacteria, viruses, the spread of germs and washing hands. Background information and a short introduction leads students to a site, and a set of questions guides their inquiry. They are to gather data, formulate answers to the questions, and communicate their developing assessment in a variety of ways. Answering certain questions will require a simple search for facts.