What is a Subject Sampler? A subject sampler is a web activity used to interest and hook students into the subject matter you wish to present. In the sampler students are given a small number of websites (around six) organized around a main topic. This activity actually asks students their thoughts about the topic, experiences the student has had in relationship to the topic, their own interpretation of an artwork, their thoughts on an article or the analysis of data. This is a good way to get students connected to the topic and have them find value in the subject matter.

• Decide on a topic for your sampler and objectives for the topic.
• Search for websites that contain information on the topic and and the curriculum objectives. You will use the websites in the activities section. You will base your questions as they relate to the web sites.
• Using the webpages that you will use as your activity resources, write questions using keywords from the specific webpages.
• Use the format below to organize your Sampler Webpage.

The parts to the Sampler Activity include: the Introduction, Activities on the Topic, and a Conclusion.

Introduction: Using the links below you will explore the ________ topic and look at the topic from different and varying perspectives. You have the option of working alone or in a group. The Internet activities will give you an opportunity to sample some of the different ideas related to the ____ topic. Each of the posed questions requires that you give your own personal beliefs about the topic. This includes what you like, what you believe, or what you feel about the topic. This is a fun activity that requires you to be open and honest in your comments and thoughts.

Activities (questions) on the topic. (at least six websites with three appropriate questions or directions)

• Web site #1
• Activity:
• Web site #2
• Activity .....etc.

Conclusion: You have been given the opportunity to explore the _______topic. During this exploration you have looked at different aspects of the topic. Describe what you have learned from this subject sampler. (As the teacher, you might make some notes on what you think the students should have learned from this sampler as a vehicle for conversation and debriefing with the students after the sampler activity.)

Internet Activities

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