Unit Plan 31 (Grade 3 ELA): Research Project – Influential Figures

Focus: Using multiple sources, note-taking, citing

Grade Level: 3

Subject Area: English Language Arts (Reading Informational, Writing)

Total Unit Duration: 5 sessions (one week), 45–60 minutes per session

I. Introduction

This week, students complete a short research project on an influential figure (scientists, artists, leaders, inventors, athletes). Learners practice finding and using multiple sources, taking brief notes in their own words, organizing information by subtopics, and citing sources in a simple list. They also compare what two texts say about the same person to confirm or add details. By Friday, each student produces a one-paragraph report with a source list and a two-source comparison statement.

II. Objectives and Standards

Learning Objectives — Students will be able to…

1. Conduct a short research project on a chosen figure using two or more sources (print and/or teacher-vetted digital) and focused questions.
2. Take brief notes and sort evidence into subtopics (early life, contributions, obstacles, impact) and paraphrase rather than copy.
3. Compare and contrast the most important points and key details from two texts about the same person.
4. Write a clear informational paragraph and provide a simple source list (title/author or site).

Standards Alignment — CCSS Grade 3

• Writing: W.3.7 (conduct short research projects)
• Writing: W.3.8 (recall/gather information; take brief notes; sort evidence; provide a list of sources)
• Reading Informational: RI.3.9 (compare/contrast key points and details in two texts on the same topic)

Success Criteria — student language

• I used two sources and can tell what each says.
• My notes are in my own words and organized by subtopic.
• I can state one similarity and one difference between the sources.
• My paragraph teaches about the person and ends with a source list.