Interdisciplinary, Anchored Instruction Using Videotape.

Results of a seventh-grade teaching team's 2-week exercise based on the videotape series "Voyage of the Mimi" are explored. The series describes a scientific expedition by a racially, ethnically, and gender mixed crew to study humpback whales off the coast of Maine. The following questions were examined: (1) whether the series could be incorporated successfully into interdisciplinary teaching and the standards of the school district; (2) whether the students would learn, or merely be entertained; and (3) whether the program would have positive effects on the mathematics and science attitudes of female students. Students (n=125) in three ability groups watched the series daily, after which it was used as an anchor or theme for a lesson. A post-exercise test examined student attitudes. Teachers reported that they were able to integrate the "Mimi" material into their lessons and that students were enthusiastic. An analysis of student papers indicated that they dealt with important concepts, and that they learned from the exercises. No changes were seen in student attitudes toward mathematics and science, but these attitudes were favorable from the start. The lack of difference between genders may be explained by the background of the students, most of whom were from college faculty or professional families. The implications for instruction are discussed. One table summarizes student attitudes, and five student drawings are included. (Contains 14 references.) (SLD)