Beyond-the-Basic Productivity Tools (BBPT)

Lesson Idea Name: Animal Classification

Content Area: Science
Grade Level(s): 5

Content Standard Addressed: S5L1. Obtain, evaluate, and communicate information to group organisms
using scientific classification procedures. a. Develop a model that illustrates how animals are sorted into
groups (vertebrate and invertebrate) and how vertebrates are sorted into groups (fish, amphibian, reptile,
bird, and mammal) using data from multiple sources.

Technology Standard Addressed: LoTi Level 4: Routine Integration

ISTE Standards: Students are getting practice act being Empowered Learners, Digital Citizens, Knowledge
Constructors, Innovative Designers, Computational Thinkers, and Creative Communicators

Selected Technology Tool: Bubbl.us

URL(s) to support the lesson (if applicable):

Bloom’s Taxonomy Level(s):

☐ X Remembering ☐X Understanding ☐ X Applying ☐X Analyzing ☐ X Evaluating ☐
XCreating

Levels of Technology Integration (LoTi Level):

☐ Level 1: Awareness ☐ Level 2: Exploration ☐ Level 3: Infusion ☐X Level 4: Integration
☐ Level 5: Expansion ☐ Level 6: Refinement

Universal Design for Learning (UDL): Multiple means of representation when explaining classification
categories. They will be written on the IWB, then placed into the bubbl.us mindmap. Multiple means of
expression: Students can show that they understand classification by creating their mindmap, or simply
writing down the various categories, or explaining verbally. Multiple means of engagement will be
provided by students accessing websites, textbooks, and other sources to get the information needed to
complete their mindmaps.

Lesson idea implementation: The project will be introduced by a brief explanation of animal classification
using bubbl.us. Students will be told the different categories and shown how to make a mind map in bubbl.us.
They will also be guided to a refresher tutorial on bubbl.us on youtube.com. The teacher will go through the
various classification categories on bubbl.us while the students watch. Slips of paper with animal names will
be chosen by students. The students will then make a mind map of the animal that is on their slip of paper,
placing the animal in all the correct classification categories. Students will be given an opportunity for an
extension by making another mindmap of their favorite animal.

The lesson will be concluded when the teacher’s mindmap is completed. Then, students will begin work on
their mindmaps. Students will submit their mindmaps with their chosen animal and be provided written
feedback. Students needing remediation will also receive verbal feedback and remedial instruction. ELLs can
be provided a tutorial in their native language. They can also receive translation from a parapro or fellow
student. Exceptional students will be provided with necessary accommodations/modifications and help, as
needed.

Spring 2018_SJB
 Beyond-the-Basic Productivity Tools (BBPT)

Reflective Practice: I believe this lesson provides an interesting way to teach a rather dry topic. Students
would not normally be very interested in classification, but using bubbl.us would likely make it more funa
and interesting for them.
The lesson could be further extended by classifying more animals, or it could be an excellent lead in to a
discussion of animal habitats.

Other technology tools that could be used with this lesson are Quizlet, PowerPoint, graphics software, all to
demonstrate the various categories.

Spring 2018_SJB