Special Features

Ben and Me

Objectives and Key Concepts

Objectives And Key Concepts:

Knowledge (This is the information that students are expected to learn)

• Evaluate everyday products on the basis of how those products have made their lives easier.
  

• Identify all the inventions that Benjamin Franklin invented that were studied.
  

• Gain an understanding about the effort involved in designing an invention by creating an invention of their own.
  

• Gain an understanding that inventions come into existence through both scientific experimentation and through accidental discovery.
  

• Explore the similarities and differences Benjamin Franklin as described by Amos and their previous knowledge of Benjamin Franklin.
  

• Appraise the historical significance of Benjamin Franklin's contribution to the human experience.
  

• Evaluate the merits of using fiction as an aid in teaching fact.
  

• Sequence events in the order that they occurred.
  

B. Skills (These are the skills students are expected to develop)

• Students will create cluster maps to demonstrate Benjamin Franklin's prowess in a variety of disciplines.
  

• Students will use the Internet, multi-media software, and books to research inventions discussed in class.
  

• Students will practice appropriate research methods when gathering information about the inventions created by Benjamin Franklin and other famous inventors.
  

• Students will apply appropriate writing strategies when writing their lost chapters to Ben and Me.
  

• Students will think critically when developing their personal invention designs.
  

• Students will develop good teamwork, problem solving, and decision-making skills.
  

C. Attitudes (It is hoped that the students will gain an appreciation for the

following)

• The trials that befell Ben Franklin in his quest to advance human society
  

• The importance of thinking for the future.
  

• The importance of looking at problems in a variety of ways.
  

• The need to support scientific exploration and advancements.
  

• The value of thinking critically.
  

• The need to learn to cooperate with others.
  

Although attitudes cannot be directly measured, it is the hope of this author that the students will at least reflect on the areas listed above as they work through, complete, and move on after this project.