Fifth graders in Ms. Baldante and Mr. Hobbes’ classes at W.S. Mount Elementary School created a zoo of animals on display during an interdisciplinary project.

Students first read the book, “The One and Only Ivan,” a story told by the point of view of a gorilla who lived 27 years in captivity. Students then researched articles that detailed the pros and cons of zoos. They took their own stance on the topic and wrote an argumentative essay defending their point of view.

At the same time, the fifth graders were learning about volume during math. They were then tasked with building 3D zoo animals using paper, cardboard and other materials. Students measured each body part and found the volume of the full animal, tying the project and different subject areas together.

Date Added: 5/18/2023