Although I am not currently teaching, this unit was designed with a specific imaginary audience in mind. I am envisioning its use with a class of 25-30 sixth grade students. The elementary school is located in a small city of about 70,000 people and serves around 475 students in grades K-6. Most of the students in this class come from above average socio-economic conditions.
This unit assumes that, by sixth grade, these students are somewhat familiar with the concept of inquiry-based learning, but the use of a formal model like the Big6 may be new to them. Many of these students are knowledgable about computers and the Internet, and most have used programs like PowerPoint and Inspiration at least once before for a school project. Many of these students are socially aware for their age and are interested in environmental issues. They enjoy the challenge of a project that allows them to go beyond collecting facts and appreciate a topic that is relevant to their lives.
My imaginary co-teacher is Mrs. Ryan who has taught sixth grade for many years and has collaborated with media specialists in a similar fashion before.