Title – Using Research and PowerPoint Presentations

By – Diane Zolman

Primary Subject – Language Arts

Grade Level – 7-9

Standards Addressed: The reader will explain meaning, describe processes, and answer research questions to inform an audience.

General Goal(s): To learn how to present research using technology

Specific Objectives:

• Write a research paper on topics about Shakespeare’s world
  
• In groups, create a PowerPoint presentation using their research
  
• Comprehend the MLA style documentation

Required Materials: PC lab, PowerPoint Program, Word Processing Program, Library resources, Textbooks

Anticipatory Set (Lead-In): Discuss facts about the Shakespearean world that students may have learned in history or drama classes. Ask students key questions that pertain to the Renaissance Period or the Elizabethan Era.

Step-By-Step Procedures:

First, students need to choose a topic from a list of 10 or more topics that you have provided for them. Next, take students through the process of writing a research paper. Show them examples of how to narrow their topic down to create a thesis. Once they have a topic, students need to gather resources and information from the library. Once they have some resource information, they can begin to write their paper. Then have students create the first sentence of their paper, one that will grab the reader’s attention. Give students examples of a model essay for them to read. Then, guide students through the writing process, paragraph by paragraph. Explain that the research paper must answer specific information concerning their thesis. Have students create three main questions about their topic that their research will answer. The paper will need to be no less than two pages long. Students will then create a works cited page using MLA style documentation. Show students how to do MLA documentation.

Once the research has been written, put students in groups by topic areas. Students will then view a demonstration using PowerPoint on “How to Use PowerPoint”. In the PC lab, show student the rubric with the requirements for their project. Student will then begin to create a PowerPoint in groups. Each group will be responsible presenting their research on PowerPoint.

Plan For Independent Practice:

Students will write a research paper from provided topics on Shakespeare’s World

Closure (Reflect Anticipatory Set):

Do a class survey on the effectiveness of PowerPoint Presentations

Assessment Based On Objectives:

This lesson is a good lesson to learn how to structure formal presentations in a classroom. It teaches the skills needed for incorporating technology as well as learning the research process.

Adaptations (For Students With Learning Disabilities):

Student with disabilities can use pictures to visually show their research. They may also use an audio CD in the presentation of their PowerPoint.

Extensions (For Gifted Students):

This lesson gives student with gifted abilities the opportunity to extending their knowledge in the topic area. They may choose to be more detailed using graphs and statistics.

Possible Connections To Other Subjects:

This lesson connects to History, Science, as well as Social Studies.

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Diane Zolman

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