Digital Animal Research Project - Google Slides Format

This animal research project has always been my students’ FAVORITE writing unit.

Kids pick an animal they actually care about (from any biome), research it with a guided organizer, and turn that research into an informative essay. Three writing levels mean every kid writes the same essay with the support they need…so nobody shuts down and nobody’s bored.

• Step-by-step research guide for any animal
• 3 leveled essay templates, from fill-in-the-blank to blank page
• Peer/self checklist and teacher rubric
• Google Slides, ready to assign

WHAT’S INCLUDED

• Teacher directions, with quick tips and suggested research websites
• Ways to assign animals to students (any biome, or savanna, arctic, rainforest or ocean options)
• Student assignment page
• Research guide covering basic information, physical characteristics, way of life, interesting facts, quotes, sources, and comparing their animal to a classmate’s
• Peer/self writing checklist
• Teacher rubric
• Essay writing paper

THE THREE WRITING LEVELS
Level 1: Fill-in-the-blank paragraphs, with most of the essay written for students. Great for kids who freeze at a blank page.
Level 2: Some support, with pages explaining hooks, thesis statements and transitions.
Level 3: A blank essay template for students ready to write on their own.

All three levels produce the same informative essay, so the whole class works on one project and you assign each kid the level that fits.