Biogeochemical Cycles Presentations

The purpose of this assignment is to acquaint students with the processes associated with the following cycles: hydrological, carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, & sulfur. To accomplish this, student groups will:

  1. Produce a play that involves class members (giving parts and scripts not only to group members, but also other class members) acting out the components of the cycle.
  2. Help the class answer the questions given concerning that cycle.

The presentations will be evaluated by the following rubric:

Criteria Attempted (1) Acceptable (2) Admirable (3) Awesome (4)
Cycle Components Very few necessary components of the biogeochemical cycle are included. Some necessary components of the biogeochemical cycle are included for a less than complete understanding. Most necessary components of the biogeochemical cycle are included for an almost complete understanding. All necessary components of the biogeochemical cycle are included for a complete understanding.
Labeling Very few Actors & Actresses are clearly labeled / named to communicate their role. Some Actors & Actresses are clearly labeled / named to communicate their role. Most Actors & Actresses are clearly labeled / named to communicate their role. Actors & Actresses are clearly labeled / named / and costumedto communicate their role.
Scripts Very few components of the cycle are given scripts to convey their role. Some components of the cycle are given scripts that clearly explain their role. Most components of the cycle are given scripts that clearly explain their role. Components of the cycle are given scripts that clearly explain their role.
Questions Students in the group struggle with helping the class answer the questions assigned. The questions seem to be an afterthought because all their efforts went into the play. Students in the group help the class answer most of the questions assigned. Students in the group successfully help the class answer the questions assigned. Students in the group successfully and efficiently help the class answer all the questions assigned.
Organization Group's organization is not really apparent. No one is in charge and the teacher has to take control just to get it done without total chaos. Group is able to get the play accomplished, but struggle somewhat with organization. Group is somewhat organized and has a plan of action to "produce" their play with the class. Group is organized and has a plan of action to "produce" their play with the class. They are in charge and commanding!
Attitude Group members carry out the presentation with their negative vibes stifling what used to be positive attitudes of the other class members. Group members show up (but that's about it). Their attitude is indifferent. Group members convey an attitude that maybe this is okay. Group members convey an attitude that they would rather be doing this than anything else on Earth and this is "so cool they cannot believe it could possibly be school."