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All grades  Lesson 120 minutes

"Hello Culture! Meet & Greet Adventure"

Anjelica S
D2.Rel.6.9-12
TH:Re8.HS3.b
D2.Rel.8.9-12
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This learning experience aims to deepen students' understanding of cultural identities and their influence on societal interactions. Through project-based activities like digital storytelling and art creation, students explore their own cultural journeys and engage in critical reflection. By collaborating with peers and community partners, students build self-awareness and critical thinking skills, fostering a sense of belonging and appreciation for diversity. The experience culminates in an exhibition that celebrates individual identities and their impact on community dynamics.

Learning goals

Students will explore and articulate their own cultural identities and understand how these identities influence their perspectives and interactions within society. They will develop skills in critical thinking and self-directed learning by engaging in a heritage hunt, analyzing case studies, and creating digital storytelling projects. Through collaborative activities and reflective art projects, students will gain insights into the diversity of cultural experiences and the impact of cultural identity on societal dynamics.
Standards
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Rel.6.9-12 - Identify how internal diversity is evident in beliefs, behaviors, and experiences of belonging to various communities.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] TH:Re8.HS3.b - Use new understandings of cultures and contexts to shape personal responses to drama/theatre work.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Rel.8.9-12 - Interpret how beliefs, behaviors, and experiences of belonging to various communities affect and are affected by other social, political, and cultural forces.
Competencies
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.

Products

Students will create a digital storytelling project that narrates their personal cultural journeys, incorporating illustrations and narratives that highlight their identities. Throughout the project, they will also produce self-reflection journals to track their progress and refine their work based on peer and teacher feedback. As a culminating product, students will design reflective art pieces that represent their cultural identities, which will be displayed in an 'Identity Mosaic Gallery Walk' alongside their digital stories. This exhibition will invite peers and teachers to engage in meaningful discussions about cultural identity and community impact.

Launch

Begin the lesson with a "Cultural Story Circle," where students gather in a circle and share a brief story or object that represents an aspect of their cultural heritage. Encourage students to listen actively and ask questions, fostering an environment of curiosity and respect. This activity sets the stage for the 'Heritage Hunt' and helps students make connections with their peers, laying the groundwork for deeper exploration of cultural identities.

Exhibition

Students will present their digital storytelling projects and reflective art pieces in an 'Identity Mosaic Gallery Walk.' This exhibition invites classmates, teachers, and community members to explore and discuss the diverse cultural identities represented. Attendees will engage with the stories and artworks, fostering a deeper understanding of how cultural identities influence societal interactions. The event will encourage dialogue and reflection on the shared and unique aspects of cultural experiences within the community.