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All grades  Project 4 weeks

"Welcome Week: Bonding Bash & School Splash!"

Simon K
D4.8.6-8
LS.2.D
D2.Civ.9.K-2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to cultivate a vibrant classroom community where students actively participate in shaping their learning environment. Through hands-on activities and collaborative decision-making, students will develop communication, cooperation, and critical thinking skills. By drafting a classroom constitution, they will learn to respect diverse perspectives and contribute to a shared vision, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this experience include fostering effective communication, cooperation, and collaboration among students to build a supportive classroom community. Students will develop skills in inclusiveness by engaging in deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions and solve problems collectively. Through the creation of a classroom constitution, students will learn to critique, revise, and reach consensus, ensuring all voices are heard and valued. Additionally, students will reflect on their roles and responsibilities, utilizing their unique strengths to contribute to a positive learning environment.
Standards
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D4.8.6-8 - Apply a range of deliberative and democratic procedures to make decisions and take action in their classrooms and schools, and in out-of-school civic contexts.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] LS.2.D - Social Interactions and Group Behavior
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.9.K-2 - Follow agreed-upon rules for discussions while responding attentively to others when addressing ideas and making decisions as a group.
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 collaboratively draft and finalize a classroom constitution that reflects shared values and goals, outlining roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes. Additionally, they will create visual representations of their class norms and expectations, such as posters or digital presentations, to display in the classroom. As part of the exhibition, students will design a school motto and mascot that embody the spirit of their classroom community, showcasing their collective identity and aspirations.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a 'Classroom Constitution Convention' where students role-play as delegates, engaging in debates and drafting their own classroom constitution. Incorporate essential questions and shared norms, culminating in a celebratory signing ceremony. This immersive activity sets the stage for collaborative decision-making and establishes a foundation for the classroom's community-focused learning environment.

Exhibition

Students will present their classroom constitution during a school-wide exhibition, showcasing their collaborative efforts and shared values. Each class will create a display featuring their chosen motto and mascot, highlighting the unique identity and community spirit they have cultivated. The exhibition will include interactive stations where students demonstrate deliberative decision-making processes, allowing visitors to engage with and learn from their experiences. This event will serve as a celebration of the students' achievements and a platform for sharing their vision for a supportive and inclusive learning environment.