LESSON SERIES: The Butterfly Effect
This lesson is built around the concept that small actions can have big consequences, as described in the theory of the butterfly effect. In the first lesson, I explained the concept of the butterfly effect to the students using videos and a thought-provoking question: Can a butterfly in Brazil cause a tornado in Texas?
The students then made graffiti circles in groups using poster board. Each group was given a different question, and each wrote about different ways that a small circumstance could have a larger impact. Afterwards, the students shared thoughts and the discussion was opened up to other groups. Below is an example of student work. (Please save and zoom into the image if you would like a closer look at the student responses.)
The students then did a Think-Pair-Share about things that made a big difference in their lives (or things they had done that made a difference.) Finally, the students began a graphic organizer about a small action causing a much bigger difference.
In the next lesson, students are able to complete their graphic organizers (many will likely be unfinished, or there may not be enough time to begin the organizer— it depends on the group.) There is a short reading comprehension activity, and a listening comprehension activity that matches the theme of the unit.
The concept of the butterfly effect really stuck with the students, and they referenced it far beyond the time the lesson was taught. They also enjoyed being able to share their ideas with the class, and the poster board spiced up the typical share-and-respond process.
Click here for the lesson materials and overhead projections.