Curricula

In this inquiry-based project, students generate their own question about the epidemiology of COVID-19 (coronavirus disease 2019) and answer it using data in a “Claim, Evidence, Reasoning” format. The lesson materials provide scaffolds for helping students select a good inquiry question, find reliable sources of information, and analyze data to help them answer their question.

The series of lessons is designed with distance learning in mind and can be completed either at home or in the classroom, with computer access. Because the lesson materials focus on building media literacy and data analysis skills, they can be modified to fit a variety of contexts. Lastly, it is important to note that this lesson was developed in April 2020 with available data and information about the epidemiology of COVID-19 evolving rapidly. Thus, the sample websites linked on the supplemental resources may no longer be relevant if much time has passed.

Learning Objectives

• Make a claim that answers a question about the epidemiology of COVID-19 and support it with evidence and reasoning.
• Distinguish between reliable and unreliable sources of information.
• Analyze and interpret visual representations of data such as graphs.

Prior Knowledge

• Using a “Claim, Evidence, Reasoning” format for constructing a scientific explanation may be helpful for students prior to using the lesson resources.