Polar Bear Plunge

The San Diego Zoo's Polar Bear Plunge is a gorgeously designed site that provides a lot of information about the polar bear.  It would therefore be a great, engaging context for teaching some information mapping strategies and using the graphic organizers of your choice, or even a Thinking Routine.  The site has many elements including an interactive map of the zoo's exhibit and habitat, a live webcam, a carbon footprint calculator, and several text-based sections.  Students can even play several arcade-style games (perhaps as a reward or at home).  This site would align with a number of curriculum topics, such as animal adaptations, the environment or USA Regions (as the zoo is a major West Coast landmark).  Check it out!