Cowboy Dictionary
Texas students will better understand their state's history, economy
and culture and that of Australia by comparing one part of
their history and culture.
Instructional Objectives
*Learn cowboy vocabulary
*Learn to read and interpret maps
*Increase awareness of Texas history and culture
*Increase awareness of how the Internet can be a
tool to share information
Content
A classroom in Texas will list words relating to cowboys, their clothing,
equipment, and work. They will define each word and its use or purpose.
Students will then exchange information with a counterpart classroom in
Australia, comparing language changes, usage changes and substitutions
for equipment.
Grade Level
This is for grades 2-4 and relates to studies in Texas history and culture
and Australia.
Activities
*Classes will list vocabulary words relating to cowboys.
* Students will work in groups to define assigned
words, tell how the item is used and illustrate.
*Communicate with classrooms in Australia to transmit
request for comparison of cowboy vocabulary.
*Compare to see differences between two countries'
vocabulary
*Use a map to locate where cattle industry is located
in Australia and locate classroom partners.
*Compare size of cattle ranches and cattle prices.
Timeline
March 18 Begin brainstorming for "cowboy
words" as a class. Teacher will divide the words into 5 groups of
words.
March 19 Assign groups to define
and illustrate each of the word groups.
March 25 Share completed cowboy
dictionary with rest of class. Edit any changes. Class decides
if each word defines correct usage.
March 27 Contact "global classroom"
in Australia to share information on project.
April 10 Compare information received
as a class.
April 12 Student assessment of
their learning.
Assessment
Students will list 3 words that are different, either by purpose or word.
Students will tell why they think the differene exists. How many
they can name and justify shows their gains in understanding.
This page created by
Carol Frosch
, Librarian at Bryan ISD
Last updated August 3, 1999