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5th, 6th, 7th Grades  Project 2 weeks

Westward Word Voyage: Compare & Contrast Quest

Laura G
L.5.1
RI.5.3
W.5.2
L.6.1
W.6.2
+ 9 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse students in the historical context of the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition, fostering a deeper understanding of westward expansion in the United States. Through hands-on activities, collaborative research, and reflective discussions, students will explore the transformative impact of exploration and expansion on the nation's development. The experience is designed to enhance critical thinking, effective communication, and self-directed learning, while allowing students to connect historical events to contemporary issues in their communities.

Learning goals

Students will explore the impact of exploration and expansion on the United States, with a focus on the Louisiana Purchase and the Lewis and Clark Expedition. They will engage in hands-on mapping activities to develop critical thinking and effective communication skills. By collaborating with community resources and participating in reflective discussions, students will deepen their understanding of historical events and their relevance to today. They will also refine their projects through feedback and contribute to collaborative efforts like mural creation, enhancing their self-directed learning.
Standards
  • [California] L.5.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
  • [California] 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.
  • [California] W.5.2 - Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas and information clearly.
  • [California] L.6.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
  • [California] W.6.2 - Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content
  • [California] RI.6.3 - Analyze in detail how a key individual, event, or idea is introduced, illustrated, and elaborated in a text (e.g., through examples or anecdotes).
  • [California] L.7.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
  • [California] W.7.2 - Write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts, and information through the selection, organization, and analysis of relevant content
  • [California] RI.7.3 - Analyze the interactions between individuals, events, and ideas in a text (e.g., how ideas influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events).
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.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a mural depicting key moments and figures from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, integrating their research and artistic interpretations. Throughout the project, students will develop visual projects such as maps or timelines that illustrate the changes in the United States due to exploration and expansion. These visual projects will be displayed in a gallery walk for peer and teacher feedback. Additionally, students will participate in a 'Pioneers' Panel' to present their reflections and insights, engaging in a moderated discussion and Q&A session.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive simulation where students role-play as members of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Set up stations representing key moments and challenges faced during the journey, such as navigating rivers, encountering Native American tribes, and mapping unknown territories. Encourage students to make decisions, solve problems, and reflect on the impact of their choices, setting the stage for deeper exploration of the essential questions throughout the project.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their collaborative mural and visual projects during a 'Pioneers' Panel,' where they will engage in a moderated discussion with the literacy college teacher. This event will allow students to share their insights on exploration and expansion, addressing the essential questions. Following the panel, an open Q&A session will invite audience participation, fostering a deeper understanding of the students' research and artistic interpretations.
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