Activity Overview
Many important natural resources come from the Midwest, including corn, wheat, dairy, livestock, and iron ore. For this activity, students will create a 3-5 cell spider map that illustrates different natural resources from the Midwest. Spider maps are an excellent tool to help students organize facts in a systematic and visual manner. To differentiate, teachers may choose to give the students a certain number of cells to create, or have the students choose between 3, 4, and 5 cells.
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 3-5 cell spider map explaining the natural resources of the Midwest.
Student Instructions:
- Click “Start Assignment”.
- Write a natural resource in each heading.
- Create an illustration that represents each heading using appropriate scenes, characters, and items.
- Write a short summary of each heading/natural resource in the space below the illustration.
Lesson Plan Reference
Rubric
(You can also create your own on Quick Rubric.)
| Proficient | Emerging | Beginning | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Explanation | There are at least three resources in the storyboard. Titles and descriptions are accurate and complete. | There are two resources in the storyboard. Titles and descriptions are accurate and complete. | One resource is correct and the title and description are accurate and complete. |
| Illustrations | The illustrations represent the descriptions using appropriate scenes, characters and items. | The illustrations relate to the descriptions, but are difficult to understand. | The illustrations do not clearly relate to the descriptions. |
| Evidence of Effort | Work is well written and carefully thought out. | Work shows some evidence of effort. | Work shows little evidence of any effort. |
| Conventions | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are somewhat correct. | Spelling, grammar, and punctuation are mostly incorrect. |
How to Explore the Economic Impact of Midwest Natural Resources
Introduction to Midwest Natural Resources and Their Economic Significance
Begin the lesson by providing an overview of the rich natural resources found in the Midwest, such as agricultural products (e.g., corn, soybeans), minerals (e.g., iron ore, coal), and freshwater resources. Discuss the economic importance of these resources, emphasizing how they have contributed to the region's growth, job opportunities, and economic development over time.
Research and Data Analysis
Divide the class into small groups and assign each group a specific natural resource commonly found in the Midwest. Instruct students to research and gather information about the resource's economic impact. This research may include the resource's historical significance, current economic contributions, industries that rely on it, and its role in global markets. Provide access to a variety of sources, including books, articles, online databases, and government reports, to help students collect data.
Presentation and Discussion
Have each group prepare a presentation summarizing their findings about the economic impact of the assigned natural resource. In these presentations, students should use data, charts, and visuals to support their points. They should discuss how the resource affects the regional economy, including job creation, trade, and industries that rely on it. Encourage class discussions and questions following each presentation to facilitate peer learning and deepen understanding.
Reflection and Application
Conclude the lesson by engaging students in a reflection activity. Ask them to contemplate the broader economic implications of Midwest natural resources on both the local and national scales. Challenge students to think critically about the sustainability and responsible management of these resources, as well as potential challenges, such as environmental concerns or market fluctuations. As a follow-up assignment, have students write essays, create infographics, or prepare brief reports on the overall economic significance of Midwest natural resources in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions about Midwest Region Natural Resources
How can I use storyboards and worksheets to teach students about the primary agricultural products of the Midwest and the region's role in national food production?
To teach students about Midwest agriculture, create worksheets with sections dedicated to key crops like corn, soybeans, and wheat. Include data on production and their significance to the national food supply. Corresponding storyboards can visually represent these crops with images and charts. Engage students with questions that encourage exploration of the Midwest's agricultural importance, such as its role in feeding the nation.
What type of storyboard layout is most effective for visually representing the natural resources of the Midwest, including the Great Lakes, forests, and energy sources?
An effective storyboard layout for representing Midwest natural resources is one that separates each resource (Great Lakes, forests, energy sources) into individual frames with clear visuals and concise descriptions. A logical sequence with engaging visuals and labels can help students understand the diversity and significance of these resources in the region's economy and environment.
How can I encourage critical thinking and problem-solving skills in students through the use of storyboards and worksheets?
To promote critical thinking, design worksheets that include open-ended questions related to the topic. Encourage students to analyze data, consider alternatives, and propose solutions. Corresponding storyboards can illustrate cause-and-effect relationships. Group activities or debates can further engage students in problem-solving and decision-making.
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