Evaluation

The process of evaluating children's performances on this unit will vary according to the purpose for which it is being used. For example, if the WebQuest is being used in preparation for a practical project the objectives will be quite different than using it as a stand-alone source of information and theoretical investigation. However, the following selection of possible Expectations and Learning Outcomes should help with evaluation, and may also prove useful as a means of ensuring that pupils are fully conversant with teacher/leader expectations of them at the commencement of the unit.

Expectations
By the end of this unit most children will have;-

• investigated several shelters
• identified a variety of materials from which it is possible to make a framework
• realised the importance of triangulation for rigidity and strength
• become aware of the distinctions between frame and shell structures
• designed a shelter using the limited materials (as specified) at their disposal

Learning Outcomes
By the end of this unit most children will;-

• understand that there are many different types of shelter built for a great variety of purposes
• be able to identify which parts support and strengthen simple structures
• recognise that some structures rely upon strength more than others
• realise that when strength is a requirement it must become part of the design
• be aware of a variety of temporary and permanent jointing techniques, and have some understanding of appropriateness to requirements
• have produced several clear design ideas, including step by step lists of what needs to be done and lists of resources to be used
• have produced a shelter design in sufficient detail that that it could be used as a building specification
• have worked successfully as part of a team
• be able to make suggestions for alternative methods of construction if necessary
• be able to evaluate their own and other children's shelter designs, identifying what is and what is not likely to work, including an appraisal of its appearance
• be able to suggest simple tests to evaluate the function and strength of the shelter
• be able to discuss with individual children (or in groups) what they have learned from the unit, and identify some targets for the practical investigation which may follow

It is worth noting that a number of these learning outcomes lend themselves to sub-division should it be considered desirable to focus an investigation onto any particular or specific aspect of this unit. It has been our intention deliberately to build into this WebQuest a degree of flexibility, thus making it useful to as wide an audience as possible. We hope that teachers will feel free to adapt and modify it to their own individual circumstances in order to accommodate both the needs of their pupils and their own.

This WebQuest is based very closely upon the recommendations of QCA Unit 6A "Shelters", thus facilitating its integration into a programme of study with complete confidence.