The Process

Step 1: Forming teams

Teams of 4 are assigned by the teacher/leader. You and your team review the TASK together. Ask questions if you have any. Each member selects two jobs he/she is particularly interested in doing. Share your choices with the team. Jobs are then assigned by group consensus or by the teacher/leader.

As you get started, remember the work of each member is equally important. The only way to complete the task is through teamwork, with all members finding as much useful research about their topic as possible. Combining your research will give you the information you'll need to complete your project.

Step 2: Getting going

To lay a common foundation about the topic of water, your team will read about “ Morphie's Great Water Adventure” .www.slideshare.net/magarces/morphies-great-water-ride-adventure-presentation-762324.This story, in rhyme, is best done as a choral reading with members taking turns reading sections aloud.

Step 3: Individual research

Using a research guide, team members will focus on the information they need to share in the team discussion. Internet sites are provided for each job. Additional sites to extend learning are listed at the end of the RESOURCE section – these additions are optional.

Begin your research by reviewing questions on your research guide. Ask your teacher/leader if you are unsure of what is expected. Some questions are factual, others ask for information in your own words, or for your ideas. Answer every question. Jot down, on the back of the guide, other info or questions that you want to bring to the group discussion.

Jobs

The Scientists

The scientists are responsible for gathering general information about where the water we use comes from and why it is important to human life.

The Conservationists

The conservationists look into how we use water, and why and how we can reduce consumption and conserve water.

The Africa Aid Workers

The aid workers help define what is meant by a “world water crisis” and show others what it means to be living in the crisis.

The Water Mission Volunteers

The Water Mission volunteers help us see that we can all be part of helping those in crisis. They share the work of Water Mission and ask our help with a major fundraiser - the annual Walk for Water.

Step 4: “Job Alike” Sharing

Now it's time for those who have the same job to discuss what they have learned. Everyone is expected to participate by sharing his/her research. As a group, brainstorm what you think are the most important things that people should know when it comes to the water on our planet.

Step 5: Team Sharing

Return now to your own team to present the expert knowledge you have gained during your research and “Job Alike” sharing discussion. Use your research guide and ideas from your “Job Alike” discussion to inform your team about your area of expertise. Team members, while listening, should jot down ideas and note facts that may be useful in the publicity campaign.

Step 6: Learn About Water Mission

Gather all teams to welcome a representative of Water Mission who visits to share information with you about the work of this organization. Be sure to ask questions, especially about the Walk for Water

OR

If a visitor is not available at your location, then each team will learn about Water Mission by viewing a video by the founders, George & Molly Greene. Go to https://vimeo.com/35587186. More information is also available at www.watermission.org and will be presented to your team by the student in the role of the Water Mission volunteer.

Step 7: Time To Think About Publicity

Publicity means getting attention from the public for an event, person, product, group or idea.

Publicity can take many forms including:

  • newspaper articles, ads

  • speeches, songs, jingles

  • posters, flyers

  • TV or radio announcements

  • Powerpoint presentations

  • mailed materials

  • Internet communications

  • community gatherings

You can certainly add to this list. If you want to use an idea not on the list, share it with your teacher/leader and get approval for it before you begin. The minimum requirement for this project is one piece of publicity completed by your team. Two or more pieces will raise the value of your team project.

Step 8: Planning the Publicity

As you and your team plan your publicity project, keep the following in mind:

  • WHO – is this publicity for, what organization and what audience

  • WHAT – is your publicity about, the event and the “bigger picture” or goal of the event

  • WHERE – do you need to note a location

  • WHEN – do you need a date and time

  • WHY (the most important question) – why should people come – what does their participation accomplish – how can you help them understand the great need around the world for water that is safe and clean – how can you convince them that they can make a difference in the lives of others

Use the PROJECT PLANNING sheet to guide your plan. Select a volunteer to be the recorder or take turns completing the information on the sheet. Only one sheet is needed per team.

Click here to download the Project Planning Sheet

Step 9: Making Your Project Come to Life

Write a short statement or proposal (see PROPOSAL sheet) telling your teacher/leader what type(s) of publicity your team will prepare. Include a list of materials and any computer needs that you will have. Attach your team PROJECT PLANNING sheet and your 4 individual RESEARCH GUIDE sheets then submit all to the teacher/leader. Once your proposal has received approval, you may begin work on your publicity.

Click here to download the Project Proposal Sheet

Once you have completed your project, hand it in to your teacher/leader, and be prepared to share your project and learning with your classmates.