4th Grade Social Studies Integrated with Technology

Materials
US Atlas CD-Rom: This software is a multimedia view of the United States.  It can be used to find detailed maps of states, counties, and cities.  Students may also listen to state songs and find information on economy, travel, and much more.
Computers
Internet Access (optional)
Copies of NC Booklet Pages
Markers/Crayons
Hole Puncher
Yarn/String

Focus & Review
What is the name of the state you live in?  Do you know what the capitol is?  If you do not know, you will find out today, along with many other interesting facts about our state!

Statement of Objectives
Today we will learn interesting facts and information about North Carolina.  We will be using computers and software to increase the students knowledge of the state we live in.

Teacher Input
1. Using a projection screen, walk the students through the software so they know how to navigate through it.
2. Give background information about NC:
Governor:  Mike Easley(D)
Became a state: 3-21-1798
3 Regions: Mountains, Piedmont, and Coastal Plains
Named for:  King Charles I
3. Explain to the students they will be putting together a booklet about North Carolina.
4. Pass out sheets for booklet including Cover, Song, Motto, Animal, Bird, Tree, Flag, and Nickname.
These can be found at http://abcteach.com/States/StateTOC.htm

Guided Practice
Teacher monitors computer usage while students are searching for information to include in their state booklet.  If there aren’t enough computers for each student to have his/her own, students can work in groups, though each will be creating an individual booklet.

Independent Practice
Students will navigate US Atlas CD-Rom (in groups or individually) to find information for their booklets.  Students will complete their booklets in class if possible, but can be done as homework.  Students should find their information first, then work on completing their booklet so they can finish at home if needed.

Closure
Ask students questions to see what they learned during their searches:
What is the state bird?
What colors are the state flag?
Who is the governor?
Tomorrow we will begin talking about the states that border NC.  Can anyone give an example of a state that touches NC?