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All grades  Project 6 weeks

Mystery Mayhem: Crafting Whodunit Wonders!

Michelle L
TH:Cr2.3.a
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.5
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse students in the art of mystery writing through hands-on experiences that foster creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. By engaging with local theater professionals, students will explore the intricacies of character development, plot structure, and dialogue, gaining insights into crafting suspenseful narratives. This project aims to build students' confidence in their storytelling abilities while enhancing their understanding of narrative techniques and fostering a sense of community and belonging. Through peer feedback and reflection, students will refine their skills and develop a deeper appreciation for the mystery genre.

Learning goals

Students will develop original mystery stories by exploring elements of plot, character development, and dialogue, while analyzing narrative structure to create suspense and intrigue. They will engage in collaborative workshops and role-playing activities to enhance their creative writing skills and understand the impact of dialogue on storytelling. Through peer reviews and community partnerships, students will refine their work, build self-knowledge, and establish a sense of identity and belonging, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] TH:Cr2.3.a - Participate in methods of investigation to devise original ideas for a drama/theatre work.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.9-10.5 - Analyze how an author's choices concerning how to structure a text, order events within it (e.g., parallel plots), and manipulate time (e.g., pacing, flashbacks) create such effects as mystery, tension, or surprise.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.11-12.3 - Write narratives to develop real or imagined experiences or events using effective technique, well-chosen details, and well-structured event sequences.
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 an original mystery story that incorporates suspenseful elements, intriguing characters, and plot twists, culminating in a polished narrative. Throughout the project, students will also develop a script for dramatizing a scene from their story, emphasizing effective dialogue and character motives. Additionally, students will produce a reflection document detailing their learning journey, insights gained from peer feedback, and personal growth in writing and storytelling.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Mystery Writers' Workshop' in collaboration with a local theater group. Students will engage in interactive activities to brainstorm intriguing characters and plot twists, setting the stage for their writing journey. This immersive experience will provide students with the opportunity to explore the elements of mystery through drama and storytelling, sparking creativity and excitement for their upcoming writing tasks.

Exhibition

Host a "Mystery Night" event where students present their mystery stories through dramatic readings or performances, showcasing their work to peers, families, and community members. Collaborate with the local theater group to provide a stage and props, enhancing the theatrical experience. Include an interactive segment where attendees can discuss plot twists and character motives with the student authors, fostering a deeper appreciation of the narrative techniques used.