Ben Franklin WebQuest

Teacher

Teacher Page

This is a 4th-5th grade WebQuest about the fascinating and invaluable American, Benjamin Franklin. Students work in a group of 4. They will be guided to sites to research the particular task assigned to them. Throughout the WebQuest they will gain knowledge about this amazing historical figure as well as develop research, writing , and cooperative learning skills. I will be looking for relevant, important, interesting information. Each student will compile his/her information into a paragraph. In addition, each student will participate in at least 1 online activity found on the websites. The culminating activity will be a detailed timeline constructed by all 4 members. Each member will contribute a minimum of 5 pieces of information in their category and 2 photos as well as assist in the creation of a neat, informative, creative timeline constructed on mural paper. This in turn, will be used in a presentation to their class where the group will teach about the remarkable Benjamin Franklin.

This WebQuest develops and enhances a variety of thinking and communication skills in a multitude of ways. Students are searching for and pulling out appropriate information that suits the project. They are working individually as well as with teammates. They are learning computer skills and report-writing skills.

STANDARD 6.1 (Social Studies Skills) All students will utilize historical thinking, problem solving, and research skills to maximize their understanding of civics, history, geography, and economics.

STANDARD 6.2 (Civics) All students will know, understand and appreciate the values and principles of American democracy and the rights, responsibilities, and roles of a citizen in the nation and the world.

STANDARD 6.4 (United States and New Jersey History) All students will demonstrate knowledge of United States and New Jersey history in order to understand life and events in the past and how they relate to the present and future.

STANDARD 8.1 (Computer and information literacy ) All students will use computer applications to gather and organize information and to solve problems.

STANDARD 3.2 (Writing) All students will write in clear, concise, organized language that varies in content and form for different audiences and purposes.

STANDARD 3.5 (Viewing and media literacy) All students will access, view, evaluate, and respond to print, nonprint, and electronic texts and resources.

Web sites for Benjamin Franklin Webquest

1. http://sf.factmonster.com/people.html

(2006). Factmonster - People. Retrieved January 30, 2008,

from the Factmonster Website:

http://sf.factmonster.com/people.html

Fact Monster

2. http://www.ushistory.org/Franklin/info/

(2008). Quick Biography. Retrieved January 30, 2008,

from The Electric Ben Franklin Website:

http://www.ushistory.org/Franklin/info/

History-Ben Franklin

3. http://www.fi.edu/franklin/