"Earth's Secret Symphony"

All grades Project 3 weeks

"Earth's Secret Symphony"

Iliana E

CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.A.2

CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-REI.C.6

CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.5.3

Self Directed Learning

Academic Mindset

+ 1 more

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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in understanding the complex interactions within Earth's systems and the impact of human activities. Through hands-on projects and collaborative research, students will explore real-world environmental challenges and develop innovative solutions. This project fosters critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of belonging as students connect their learning to their communities and the broader world.

Learning goals

Students will explore the impact of human activities on Earth's systems and develop innovative solutions to mitigate these effects. They will apply mathematical concepts, such as transformations and systems of equations, to model and analyze changes in Earth's systems. Through collaborative research and creative expression, students will enhance their self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Additionally, they will cultivate a deeper understanding of their role in the environment, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within their communities.

Standards

[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-CO.A.2 - Represent transformations in the plane using, e.g., transparencies and geometry software; describe transformations as functions that take points in the plane as inputs and give other points as outputs. Compare transformations that preserve distance and angle to those that do not (e.g., translation versus horizontal stretch).
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-REI.C.6 - Solve systems of linear equations exactly and approximately (e.g., with graphs), focusing on pairs of linear equations in two variables.
[Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.5.3 - Explain the relationships or interactions between two or more individuals, events, ideas, or concepts in a historical, scientific, or technical text based on specific information in the text.

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

Throughout the learning experience, students will collaboratively create digital simulations and artistic representations of Earth's transformations, focusing on human impacts. By the end of the project, each student will produce a written reflection detailing their learning journey and proposed solutions for positive environmental change. These products will be showcased in the 'Change Makers Gallery,' where students will present interactive models and simulations that integrate mathematical concepts, inviting community feedback and engagement.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with an 'Earth Systems Adventure Day,' where students engage in hands-on activities at interactive stations. Each station will focus on a different aspect of Earth's systems, such as the water cycle, weather patterns, and geological transformations. Utilizing digital tools and collaborative problem-solving, students will explore these concepts through immersive experiences, setting the stage for their project journey.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Change Makers Gallery' where they showcase their artistic representations and digital simulations of Earth's transformations. Each exhibit will include a written reflection detailing their research findings and proposed solutions for positive environmental change. Local artists and environmentalists will be invited to provide feedback, fostering a community dialogue on human impacts on Earth's systems. The gallery will serve as an interactive space for students to engage with visitors, discuss their projects, and demonstrate their understanding of mathematical concepts related to transformations and systems of equations.