This is a great interdisciplinary activity to use with Grade 5 students.  It requires the use of various computers with internet access and Photoshop software.  This project also requires the use of digital cameras.  This part of the assignment can be eliminated or improvised.  For example, if you have access to a scanner, pictures can be taken of the students and then scanned into the page.  It might take more time, but it is worth it!
    Have students select an object and find a new use for it.  The purpose of this assignment is to have students invent a new use for the objects.  They need to write a brief news page in the form of a webpage on how these objects can be used.  They should write about the history of the object as well as its purpose.  Students' reports should include these two objectives; however they should not be limited to these two by any means.
    As an instructor you need to be familiar with Photoshop as well as web pages.  The instructor should provide scaffolding for students who might be having difficulties.  This project would also be worth doing in groups of 3 or 4 in order for students to become more familiar with this type of assignment.

Following is a list of competencies this assignment met according to the North Carolina Standard Course of Study.  The competencies are listed below their corresponding category i.e.. Language Arts, Information Skills Curriculum and/or Computer Technology Skills Curriculum.  In order to view the descriptions of these competencies use the corresponding links:

Competency Goal 1:  The learner will apply enabling strategies and skills to read and write (1.03).
Competency Goal 2:  The learner will apply strategies and skills to comprehend text that is read, heard, and viewed (2.01, 2.06).
Competency Goal 3:  The learner will apply strategies and skills to create oral, written and visual texts (4.03, 4.05, 4.08, 4.10).
Competency Goal 5:  The learner will apply grammar and language conventions to communicate effectively (5.01, 5.02, 5.03, 5.04, 5.06, 5.07, 5.08).

Competency Goal 2:  The learner will demonstrate knowledge and skills in the use of computer and other technologies (2.1, 2.4)

Competency Goal 1:  The learner will explore sources and formats for reading, listening, and viewing purposes (1.04, 1.07, 1.08, 1.09, 1.10).
Competency Goal 4:  The learner will explore and use research processes to meet information needs (4.04, 4.06, 4.09).
Competency Goal 5:  The learner will communicate reading, listening, and viewing experiences (5.02).
 

Sample Page

Student Page