This webquest is designed to be used with 8th grade students. It does not have to be limited to that grade, but 6th & 7th Graders may lack the maturity for the topic. It should be implemented with heterogenous groups of 4 students. The webquest promotes discussion, debate, and compromise which are all skills that students need.
Implementation
The key to this evaluation is to decide how the project should be utilized. Ideally, it can be completed during Social Studies and English Language Arts. If both departments take an interest it take the onerous off of one teacher and curriculum. The research piece could be completed during Social Studies and the writing piece could be completed during English Language Arts.
Modifications
This project and the rubric will need to be modified for different school populations. The tasks and expectations will change for Special Education and ESL students. I would reduce the number of requirements for each of these groups, and leave room for more direct assistance from teachers. Vocabulary will be an issue, so the Librarian may choose the resources for students to work with.
Standards
This type of assessment is the epitome of the Common Core Standards and goals for students. Students are required to interpret the information that is found. They are required to compare and contrast the resources and information for all of the materials and choose a position. Students will write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and supportive evidence.
What is a resolution that would satisfy both sides of this conflict? Can you determine what is fair or what is not?
You will need to research the following things within your group. Each group member will be responsible for one of the questions and will present it to the rest of the group.
- The creation of Israel
- The history of this Middle Eastern Region
- The Israeli point of view
- The Palestinian point of view
The groups will be formed by the teacher.
Each group needs to choose a responsible LEADER who will help facilitate discussion during the conflict resolution phase.
The group will need to elect a WRITER to record the ideas that are discussed.
The group will need to elect a primary PRESENTER for the final phase of the project. All group members will participate, however the primary PRESENTER will present the idea and the other group members will assist with questions and responses.
The group will be in need of a TIME-KEEPER to insure that everyone is ready with their information and no one person is too far behind.
After each of these topics are fully researched, you will create a concept map of this Middle Eastern area. You will return to your groups and inform the other students about your findings. You will then use this information for the next part. Utilizing the ideas of the concept map, you will then highlight at least two key concerns of both sides. Lastly, you will implement a conflict resolution chart for the highlighted problems. Each group member will brainstorm possible resolutions. The group will decide which resolutions are the most promising and why. The final consensus will be presented to the class as a contender for a diplomatic solution.
1. You will utilize print and web based resources to immerse yourselves into your part of the project. You will research your portion of the above-mentioned tasks and take notes about the important dates, facts, and background information.
2. Create concept map from each of the group members information and discuss.
3. Create Conflict Resolution Chart
4. Final presentation to class
5. Vote on best resolution from class
Helpful Websites
History
Israel Point of View
Palestine Point of View