Variations & Survival - Student Choice Projects, MS, New TEKS 6.13D

Empower your middle school students to take ownership of their learning with the Variations & Survival Student Choice Projects, aligned with 2021 TEKS standard 6.13C.
This engaging project-based resource allows students to select a project that matches their preferred learning and output style, encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and deep understanding of how variations influence species survival.

The project choice board features six student-led options plus a “design your own” project for students who want to go above and beyond.
An editable grading rubric makes it simple for teachers, peers, or students to assess work consistently and meaningfully.

Flexible, Dynamic, and Student-Centered

These Student Choice Projects are designed for flexibility, allowing you to easily customize the rubric to meet your grading preferences.
With multimodal project options, students can demonstrate what they’ve learned in ways that fit their strengths — through writing, visuals, technology, presentations, or hands-on design.

This structure supports differentiated instruction and helps every student feel successful while exploring how genetic variation contributes to adaptation and survival.

What’s Included

• Nine project choice board options plus a “design your own” project

• Teacher Directions page with implementation ideas, support tips, and differentiation suggestions

• Editable rubric pages assessing vocabulary, concepts, presentation quality, clarity, and accuracy

Differentiated for All Learners

To meet a wide range of classroom needs, two versions of the project page are included:

• A modified version featuring three scaffolded project options for students who need extra support or remediation.

• A standard version for grade-level learners, with the option to assign multiple projects for enrichment and challenge—all using the same consistent rubric.

Differentiation is simple and built right in—no extra prep required.

Simple Supplies, Maximum Creativity

No special materials needed!
The Variations & Survival Student Choice Projects use common classroom supplies—like paper, markers, scissors, and glue—and can easily be adapted for digital completion.

Whether your students prefer artistic expression, analytical writing, or multimedia presentations, this resource gives them the freedom to show what they know in a way that fits their learning style.

This is a finished product; it will be updated with corrections as needed. Future improvements and new features will be sold as a separate product.