This module focuses on endangered species. Students will learn about endangered animals, threats to their habitats, and ways to help protect them. They will research an endangered species, write a report, and participate in online discussions. The instructor will use individualized and cooperative learning to engage students. The goals are for students to communicate knowledge about endangered animals and take action to protect biodiversity.

1. Course Module: Week 1 Endangered Species Instructor: Ms. J. Weatherly

10. Consistently uses grammatically correct posts with rare misspellings Consistently posts topic related to discussion topic; cites additional references related to topic Few grammatical or spelling errors are noted in post Frequently posts topic that is related to discussion content; prompts further discussion of topic Errors in spelling and grammar evidenced in post Occasionally posts off topic; post is short in length and offer no further insight into the topic Utilizes poor spelling and grammar Posts topic which does not relate to the discussion content; makes short or irrelevant Delivery of Post Relevance of Post Score 4 3 2 1 Discussion Rubric

11. Discussion Rubric Cont’d TOTAL Aware of needs of community; frequently attempts to motivate the group discussion; presents creative approaches to topic Frequently attempts to direct the discussion and to present relevant viewpoints for consideration by group; interacts freely Occasionally makes meaningful reflection on group’s efforts; marginal effort to become involved with group Does not make effort to participate in learning community as it develops; seems indifferent Contribution to the Learning Community Expresses opinions and ideas in a clear and concise manner with obvious connection to topic Opinions and ideas are stated clearly with occasional lack of connection to topic Unclear connection to topic evidenced in minimal expression of opinions or ideas Does not express opinions or ideas clearly; no connection to topic Expression Within the Post

13. Chat Rubric 24 Total 4 Responded to at least 2 posts 4 Stated how you can help 4 Named two species that are success stories 4 Discussed ways that wildlife biologists are working to save endangered species 4 Participated in the Discussion 4 Entered Chat Discussion Maximum Points Assignment 2 Grading Criteria

17. Written Assessment Rubric 24 Total 4 Used at least three sources from the library 4 Answered questions listed 4 Responded to at least 2 posts 4 Correct spelling, grammar, and punctuation 4 Included Title, heading 4 Included a bibliography Maximum Points Grading Criteria

20. Module 1 Assignment Overview Friday, December 4, 2009 Assignment 3: Project Wednesday, December 2, 2009 Assignment 2: Chat Tuesday, December 1, 2009 Assignment 1: Discussion Due Date Assignment Summary: Module 1

22. Extinction Long before recorded history, humans were killing off species of animals. Humans caused the extinction of huge birds called moas in Malaysia and of giant lemurs in Madagascar. We may also have caused the extinction of many large mammals like dire wolves, giant sloths, saber-toothed cats, and mastodons. Since 1600, more than 700 species of plants and animals have gone extinct. This is only counting the plants and animals that we know of. The majority of plants and animal species in the world have never even been documented. There is no way of knowing how many of these undiscovered treasures have been lost.

26. Mission WWF's mission is the conservation of nature. Using the best available scientific knowledge and advancing that knowledge where we can, we work to preserve the diversity and abundance of life on Earth and the health of ecological systems by protecting natural areas and wild populations of plants and animals, including endangered species; promoting sustainable approaches to the use of renewable natural resources; and promoting more efficient use of resources and energy and the maximum reduction of pollution. We are committed to reversing the degradation of our planet's natural environment and to building a future in which human needs are met in harmony with nature. We recognize the critical relevance of human numbers, poverty and consumption patterns to meeting these goals. Goal By 2020 WWF will conserve 19 of the world's most important natural places and significantly change global markets to protect the future of nature.