Curriculum Correlations

Math -

• Students measure distances between Iditarod checkpoints
• Students calculate and graph mushers' daily progress
• Students estimate costs of maintaining and entering an Iditarod-class team
• Students convert Alaskan time to their local area time zone (worldwide)
• Students developt strategic plans in completion of the race
• Students measure and construct a dog sled for their "I-Kid-A-Rod" team race
• Students use a wide array of mathematical computational skills to solve authentic deduction and story problems.

Spelling -

• Students increase vocabulary knowledge through new words associated with the Iditarod theme
• Students apply knowledge of new and unfamiliar words through language arts processes (decoding and writing)
• Students create vocabulary crossword and word find puzzles
• Students research words and dialect from other culture.

Writing -

• Students create and maintain a daily musher's log or journal
• Students experience a variety of genres while writing (first person or dog)
• Students write a logical entry through use of visual aids (graph and musher chart)
• Students build on previous writing knowledge, processes, and skills
• Students explore poetic genres, including cinquains, limericks, and prose
• Students develop persuasive writing skills in seeking out mock sponsorship for their team and race.

Reading -

• Students increase fiction and nonfiction literature experiences through reading of Iditarod, Alaskan, and or mushing-themed novels, chapter, and picture books.
• Students develop an appreciation for literature of new experiences (dog sledding, mushing, Iditarod racing)
• Students develop the process of selecting age or ability appropriate literature of interest

Science (Physical, Life, Earth, and Space)

• Students explore the natural phenomena of Alaska (aurora borealis, glaciers, tundra, permafrost, earth rotation, and effect of light and global issues)
• Students perform and design experiments to prove theories conducive to their science content
• Students study the various aspects of animal (dog) training, care, breeding, and desirable characteristics of sled dogs
• Students learn importance of good nutrition pertaining to dogs and mushers
• Students learn and explore dangers of harsh winter conditions and their effects on human beings (hypothermia, frostbite)
• Students analyze weather conditions, predictions, and forecasts and their results on human adaptation
• Students study population of other cultures (Alaska) through readings of checkpoints and historical documents
• Students compare and contrast Alaskan life with their local environment
• Students research diptheria epidemic;compare and contrast to contemporary diseases and fatalities
• Students learn about proper food choices, caloric intake, diet, nutrition, through food unit
• Students learn about Alaskan wildlife and the role they play in the ecological balance of the Alaskan environment.
• Students research endangered species and compare and contrast with their own state

Visual Arts -

• Students experience a variety of artistic mediums, methods, and processes
• Students illustrate a variety of Iditarod / Alaskan t hemed works (poetry, ideal dogs, ABC Books, gameboards, printmaking, sculptures, masks, basketweaving)
• Students are familiarized with Alaskan / native art methods and practices (scrimshaw, basket weaving, spirit masks, goggles, carvings, etc)

Technology-

• Students utilize a wide array of applications and programs to enhance their learning
• Students develop technological abilities and proficiency through use of technology as a tool to learning and lifestyle
• Students consider audiences and practice ethiquette through website connections
• Students create interactive web-based games of multiple choice through use of available programs and web authoring tools (Hyperstudio, Flash5)
• Students develop photography skills through selecction of appropriate website topics and content
• Students scan, save, export, and learn processes for internet posting.

Social Studies -

• Students explore new cultures (Haida, Inuit, Tlinglit, Aleuts)
• Students develop connections to other cultures in their similarities or contrasts those of their own state
• Students compare past historical events with present cultures and their impact on contemporary living
• Students research topographical terrain and its influence on the sport of sled dog racing
• Students develop map skills through daily use of trail maps and distance charts
• Students read about diptheria serum run for historical value on Iditarod race

Iditarod Sled Building Teacher Activities Learning Modules Video List IkidaRod Brad Favorite Links

Literature List Alaska and the Inuit Curriculum Materials