Worm 1 Worm 2 Worm 3 Worm 4 Worm 5 Worm 6 Worm 7 Worm 8
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E is for Earthworm: An A - Z Guide

School: Palouse Prairie School of Expeditionary Learning

City/State: Moscow, ID

Grade(s): K

Format(s): Children's book: Alphabet

Subject(s): English Language Arts, Science and Technology, Visual Arts

Project Overview

Kindergarten students at Palouse Prairie School created this book during an expedition on an animal native to their region: the Giant Palouse Earthworm. During their study, students visited the University of Idaho were they met with Dr. Jodi Johnson, an expert in the field, built worm habitats in the lab, and conducted experiments. Students also constructed a worm bin in their classroom and learned how to care for, observe, and collect data about worms. They used this knowledge, in combination with their understanding of the alphabet to create their book: E is for Earthworm.

After examining several alphabet books, students decided on the elements and characteristics they would include on the pages of their book: a large letter, text related to worm habitats, and on each page the text must correspond to the pictures. Each student made a drawing of a letter using a student-created criteria list and then conducted peer critiques. They used the information they gathered during their research studies to write a sentence on worm habitat. Finally, the students studied the work of Eric Carl, Lois Ehlert and Ashley Wolf and created a collage for their page.  A professional graphic designer combined the students’ work into book format. The cumulating event for this expedition included a book signing and reading at a local bookstore.

The Learning Targets for this expedition include:

  • I can the four basic needs of an earthworm
  • I can describe the habitat of the Palouse Earthworm
  • I can design a page of the ABC Palouse Earthworm book
  • I can make a collage to match the words for the ABC book
  • I can revise my letter for the ABC book using a look-for list
  • I can participate in a peer critique with my CREWmate

How This Project Can Be Useful

  • A project format that is appealing and has a genuine audience – attractive to parents and community members
  • An excellent example of the high quality work kindergarten students are capable of, in research, writing, illustration and collage
  • Illustrations that represent a balance of scientific accuracy and creativity of young artists
  • Sharing their work with an authentic audience motivates students
  • The final product demonstrates the integration of scientific research, observation and visual art into a single, high quality representation of their work

Common Core State Standards

Standard Long Term Learning Target
W.K.2
  • I can teach my reader about a topic using pictures and words.
W.K.8
  • With support from adults, I can answer questions about things I’ve done or learned about.
W.3.4
  • With support from adults, I can produce writing that is appropriate to task and purpose.
L.K.1
  • I can use grammar conventions to send a clear message to a reader or listener.
L.K.2
  • I can use conventions to send a clear message to my reader.
L.K.6
  • I can speak using words I hear in books.
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