Uncle Tungsten Writing Assignment

You have completed Uncle Tungsten. From the list below, choose an activity that is appealing to you, and bring that project with you on the date assigned (before the 28th of February). Printed submissions may be sent to me via school email (susofidalgo@gmail.com). If you have another idea for the assignment present it to me for approval.


1. Create an original book jacket (front, back & inside flaps) including an enticing summary of the plot and an illustrated cover (text - 1.5 space , 12 pt font )
2. Write a two page letter to the author of the book describing what the book meant to you and why. (Cite examples from the book)(1.5 space, 12pt font)

3. Create a toy or game related to the book – this could be a board game or a game to be played with lab or sports equipment

4. Create the headline and front page of a newspaper relaying & describing important event(s) from the book. (text - 1.5 space , 12 pt font with appropriately-sized headings)

5. Direct & produce a five-to-seven-minute movie chronicling either an overview of the entire book or at least 3 specific scenes in the book.

6. Write an editorial to a newspaper educating your audience about an issue raised in the book, and offering insights and historical perspective to the issue relating to today’s time.

(text - 1.5 space , 12 pt font )

7. Design a lesson plan with activity to teach a class about an aspect of the book, this could include a lab (a realistic one!) (text - 1.5 space , 12 pt font )

8. Write a two page letter to me about a scientist that Sacks discussed in the book, whom you would like to meet and why. Include a description of the scientist’s work/achievement(s) (text - 1.5 space , 12 pt font )

9. Create an illustrated dual timeline comparing events in science with/to events in Sacks’ life. (can be done electronically or by hand)

10. Other possibilities for consideration: podcasts, poems, plays, artwork, etc. See me to explain your idea!

Grading Rubric

Demonstrates thorough understanding of the book                      1          2          3          4          5

Demonstrates thorough understanding of the

scientific concepts presented in the project                                     1          2          3          4          5

Extends both the writer’s & the reader’s understanding

of the scientific & historical concepts presented                            1          2          3          4          5

Demonstrates originality, creativity, organization,

neatness, attention to detail & timely submission                           1          2          3          4          5