A Mount Everest WebQuest
for grades 2 and 3

by Caroline Young

introduction task  process evaluation conclusion home

Introduction: You are an explorer, and your next adventure is to climb to the top of Mount Everest!  Mount Everest is said to be the highest mountain in the world.  Are you ready?

Task:
1.  You will be working on your own and with a partner.
2.  You will visit the sites provided to gather information and record it in your learning notebook.
3.  You will keep a journal from the perspective of someone who is climbing Mount Everest.
4.  All findings should be recorded in your journal.  I will collect them at the end of each class and provide written feedback.

Process:

1.  Before we begin our journey, we should learn a few things about Mount Everest.  Click here to find the information, and record your findings in your notebook.  How did it get it's name?  In what country/countries is the mountain located? How tall is it in meters and in feet?  When was it formed?  What is the highest cause of deaths?  How long was the longest stay on the top?

2.  Click here to take a virtual tour of Mount Everest.  Click on each point on the mountain.  Watch the video and read the captions that go along with each one.  In your notebook, write two to four sentences describing each point.

3.  Get together with a partner, then click here to find out what supplies are available to climbers.   I only want you to look at the list on the left side of the page.   Together, decide what are the ten most important things you should should bring with you on your trip.  Consider the weather conditions.  Click on them to find out how much they cost and record each price in your notebook.  Add them up to find your total.  List five things that you do not think you will need.

4.  Read the interview with Sir Edmund Hillary.   What did you learn about him?  Why is he important in learning about Mount Everest?   Record your thoughts in your notebook.  Below your response should be five questions.  Your questions should include either questions about what you read, or questions you would ask if you were interviewing Sir Edmund Hillary.

Evaluation:
1. What was the most interesting thing you learned about Mount Everest? Why?

2. Would you want to climb Mount Everest?  Why or why not?

3.   You are spending one week on Mount Everest.  Write a journal entry for each day you are on the mountain.  Some questions to consider:  Where are you on the mountain?  Where are you going?  Who are you with?  What is it like?  How are you feeling?  What is your role on this expedition?  Why are you there?  Use the sources provided for information, and BE CREATIVE!!!

Conclusion: Climbing Mount Everest is no easy feat.  I hope that you all learned how important it is to set a goal for yourself and how rewarding it is to accomplish your goal.  Nothing is impossible!!!