West Region Postcard Project: Storyboard That Lesson Plan

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Lesson Plan Overview

Template and Class Instructions

Student Rubric

Lesson Plan Overview

The West is the home of many interesting places to visit, such as Disneyland, the Redwood Forest, Hollywood, Las Vegas, Yellowstone National Park, Devil’s Tower in Wyoming, and the Golden Gate Bridge. Postcards are a fun way to let others know about where you’ve been! Using the template provided, students will create a postcard from a tourist attraction in the West. The written part must include at least one fact about the attraction, and the picture must accurately depict the location.

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Template and Class Instructions

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)

Due Date:

Objective: Create a postcard from a tourist attraction in the West.

Student Instructions

Click on “Start Assignment”.
In the left cell, create an image that depicts the tourist attraction using an appropriate scene, characters, and items. Be sure to include the state name as a real postcard would.
In the right cell, write a note to a friend or family member describing the attraction that you have "visited". You must include at least one fact about the attraction.
On the address lines provided, make up a creative address for the recipient.
Create a fun stamp in the box in the upper right corner.

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Lesson Plan Reference

Grade Level 4-5

Difficulty Level 3 (Developing to Mastery)

Type of Assignment Individual

Switch to: Common Core • Arizona • California • Colorado • Florida • Georgia • Iowa • Kansas • Maryland • Massachusetts • Nebraska • New Jersey • New York • North Carolina • Ohio • Oklahoma • Pennsylvania • Texas • Utah

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Student Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)

Postcard

Create a postcard for your assigned location that showcases one or more of its amazing sites and features! Include the name of your location and at least one major point of interest along with an illustration. Add other images to your design that represent attributes of your country such as the flag and/or a stamp that uses the correct currency from your location. Write a letter on your postcard that describes the site and why it is important in at least 4-6 sentences.

	Proficient 6 Points	Emerging 4 Points	Beginning 1 Points
Text	Includes location name, name of famous site and 4-6 sentence letter with an accurate description of the site and why it is important.	Missing one element of text.	Missing two or more elements of text.
Design and Illustrations	Illustration depicts at least one major site of importance. Overall design includes attributes from the location with appropriate scenes, characters or items.	Illustration depicts important site. Design and attributes are present but are unclear or incomplete.	Illustration and design do not depict important sites or attributes of the location.

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Lesson Plan Overview

Copy Activity

Template and Class Instructions

(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)

Due Date:

Objective: Create a postcard from a tourist attraction in the West.

Student Instructions

Click on “Start Assignment”.
In the left cell, create an image that depicts the tourist attraction using an appropriate scene, characters, and items. Be sure to include the state name as a real postcard would.
In the right cell, write a note to a friend or family member describing the attraction that you have "visited". You must include at least one fact about the attraction.
On the address lines provided, make up a creative address for the recipient.
Create a fun stamp in the box in the upper right corner.

More options

Copy This Storyboard

Lesson Plan Reference

Grade Level 4-5

Difficulty Level 3 (Developing to Mastery)

Type of Assignment Individual

Copy Activity

Student Rubric

(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)

Postcard

	Proficient 6 Points	Emerging 4 Points	Beginning 1 Points
Text	Includes location name, name of famous site and 4-6 sentence letter with an accurate description of the site and why it is important.	Missing one element of text.	Missing two or more elements of text.
Design and Illustrations	Illustration depicts at least one major site of importance. Overall design includes attributes from the location with appropriate scenes, characters or items.	Illustration depicts important site. Design and attributes are present but are unclear or incomplete.	Illustration and design do not depict important sites or attributes of the location.

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How to Research and Include Historical or Cultural Context

Introduction to Researching Historical or Cultural Context

Start by introducing the importance of researching and including historical or cultural context in projects. Explain that context provides a deeper understanding of the subject and enhances the quality of work.

Research and Gathering Information

Instruct students to begin their research. Provide guidance on credible sources, both online and offline, where they can find historical or cultural information related to their chosen topic. Encourage them to take notes and document their sources.

Analyzing and Synthesizing Information

Teach students how to analyze the information they've gathered, looking for key historical events, cultural traditions, or influential figures related to their topic. Discuss how to synthesize this information into their project in a way that enhances understanding.

Incorporating Historical or Cultural Context

Guide students in incorporating the historical or cultural context they've researched into their projects. This could include adding relevant background information, citing key historical events, or explaining the cultural significance of their chosen topic. Encourage them to create a clear and concise narrative that enriches their work.

Frequently Asked Questions about US Regions West - Tourist Attractions

What are the must-visit national parks and natural wonders in the Western United States, and how can visitors plan their trips to explore these attractions?

Must-visit national parks in the Western US include the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Yosemite, Zion, and Arches. To plan trips, visitors should research park websites for information on accommodations, permits, and seasonal considerations. Developing itineraries that balance popular sites with less crowded areas is key to an enjoyable experience.

What are the top cultural and historical attractions in the Western US, and how can tourists immerse themselves in the region's rich heritage and traditions?

Top cultural attractions include San Francisco's Alcatraz, Santa Fe's adobe architecture, and Southwestern Native American heritage sites. To immerse themselves, tourists should participate in guided tours, explore local art scenes, dine at culturally inspired restaurants, and engage with local communities to gain a deeper understanding of traditions.

How can storyboards effectively illustrate the diverse tourist attractions of the Western United States, from natural wonders to cultural sites, and engage students in interactive learning?

Storyboards provide visual representations of diverse attractions, enabling students to explore iconic landmarks, national parks, and cultural heritage sites through images, maps, and brief descriptions. The interactive format encourages engagement, discussion, and active learning, fostering a deeper understanding of the Western US's diverse tourist offerings.

How can storyboards and/or worksheets effectively illustrate the diverse tourist attractions of the Western United States, from natural wonders to cultural sites, and engage students in interactive learning?

Both storyboards and worksheets can be used to present information about the Western US's tourist attractions. Storyboards offer a visual representation of these sites, while worksheets can include activities like quizzes, map analysis, and reflection questions. These tools encourage interactive learning and student engagement, making the content more accessible and memorable.