All grades  Project 11 weeks

"Waves of History: Empire Communication Quest"

Aaron W
PS.2.B
PS.4.A
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Purpose

Students will explore the fascinating world of communication through waves, delving into its historical significance and modern applications. By engaging with community partners like local radio stations and podcast hosts, students will gain real-world insights and hands-on experience in building FM receivers and transmitters. This project encourages critical thinking and problem-solving as students learn about wave properties and electrical circuits, culminating in the creation of positive propaganda posters and speeches to reflect on communication's impact on society.

Learning goals

Students will explore the principles of wave properties and their applications in communication by engaging with community partners like local radio and podcast hosts. They will develop skills in reading electrical wiring diagrams, soldering, and building electrical circuits to create functional FM receivers and transmitters. Through the project, students will critically analyze historical and modern uses of communication to create positive propaganda posters and speeches, fostering self-directed learning and academic mindset.
Standards
  • [] PS.2.B - Types of Interactions
  • [] PS.4.A - Wave Properties
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 construct FM receivers and transmitters, applying their understanding of electrical circuits and wave properties. They will design and deliver positive propaganda speeches, focusing on historical communication methods and their impact on society. Additionally, students will create positive propaganda posters, integrating artistic expression with historical research to convey messages that resonate with their communities.

Launch

Kick off the project with a "Phone Tag Challenge," where students experience the complexity of communication by attempting to relay a message through a series of whispers around the class. This activity will introduce the concept of waves and signal transmission, sparking curiosity about how communication technologies overcome such challenges. Engage students in a discussion about historical and modern communication methods, setting the stage for their exploration into building FM receivers and transmitters.

Exhibition

Students will host a "Waves of Communication" fair, inviting community partners such as local radio stations and podcast hosts to attend. Each student group will present their working FM receivers and transmitters, demonstrating their understanding of wave properties through interactive displays. They will also showcase their positive propaganda posters and deliver speeches, highlighting the historical role of communication in expanding empires. The exhibition will include hands-on activities where attendees can learn to solder and build simple circuits, fostering a deeper connection between students and the community.