The ABCs of Conservation

With this class iMovie project, students gain a deeper understanding of conservation as well as the letters and sounds of the alphabet. The project appeals to visual and auditory learners as it allows them to learn more about conservation by actively participating in making a movie.

The teacher introduces the project by reading to the class several books that discuss Earth Day and ways to save the planet. First, the class brainstorms ways they can conserve to help save the earth, deciding on one method for each letter of the alphabet. Each student or pair of students is assigned to one or more letters. Each student or pair practices reciting a conservation tip that begins with their letter and also finds a prop to use. The students are videotaped reciting their lines while holding up the letter of the alphabet and a prop. The teacher imports the video clips into iMovie. The class participates in sequencing the clips, deciding how the clips should be edited, and choosing transitions. The completed project can be shown to the entire school for Earth Day or at another time to reinforce the importance of conservation.

After completing this project, students will be able to:

• Identify the letters of the alphabet and corresponding sounds and words that begin with that letter.
• Identify multiple ways that they can help to protect the earth.
• Develop a deeper understanding of conservation.

After completing this project, students will be able to:

• Film video clips using a digital video camera (with assistance).
• Understand how iMovie can be used as a presentation tool.
• Be familiar with editing, sequencing, transitions, and other features of iMovie.

• The students can be asked to identify at least ten ways that they can conserve to save the earth.
• While compiling the iMovie project, student understanding and capability of placing the letters in the proper order can be observed and assessed.
• Student identification of letters and corresponding letter awareness can be observed and assessed during the class brainstorming and upon completion of the project.

Books
Conservation books

Internet

• Earth 911
• iLife How-To Guides

Tools
Macintosh computers, digital video camera, tripod, projector or tv to display iMovie project, Internet connection, iMovie