Lesson Plan - What’s Up, World? Australia

Watch a Video: Welcome to Australia!
Ask: What facts from the video did you find most surprising or interesting?

Preview Words to Know
Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce the Words to Know. 

• equator
• marsupials

Set a Purpose for Reading
As students read, have them think about why people might want to visit Australia. 

1. What is the meaning of the nickname “Land Down Under”?
Australia is known as the “Land Down Under” because it is located below the equator, an imaginary line that circles Earth. 
^{RI.3.1 Demonstrate Understanding}

2. How are the sports of cricket and baseball alike? How are they different?
Both are popular sports that are played with a bat and ball, but they have different rules. And cricket is played on an oval-shaped field, while baseball is played on a diamond.
^{RI.3.8 Comparison}

3. Based on the article, photos, and captions, what might people do on a visit to Australia?
Visitors to Australia might surf at Bondi Beach, observe quolls or other wildlife, see a cricket game or an event at the Sydney Opera House, try vegemite, or enjoy a Children’s Day celebration.
^{RI.3.5 Text Features}

FEATURED SKILL: Compare and Contrast
Use the skill builder “Comparing Communities” to have students compare and contrast their own communities with Australia. 
^{RI.3.8 Comparison}