Middle School Science / 6th Grade
Everlasting Summer
How can some birds experience two summers a year?
This unit is designed to introduce students to project-based learning and scientific discourse while learning about seasons. Students begin by considering the question Why do some birds migrate with the seasons? Next, they investigate the question: Why is summer warmer than winter? While focusing on a specific migratory bird, students use models and investigations to explain the difference in duration, directness, and temperature of daylight. After revising their initial models and developing their scientific arguments, students create pocket models to engage community members in learning how migratory birds can experience summer twice a year.
Unit length: 3 weeks (15 hours)
”"This isn't the same old, same old history. I'm learning about things that matter to me."
Ruby, Student
