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12th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Philosopher Gram: Enlightenment Edition!

Maria M
CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-ID.C.7
CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-CN.C.9
N.M.P.08
12.3.MH.1
6.ss
+ 5 more
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Purpose

This project invites students to delve into the world of Enlightenment philosophers, exploring their profound impact on modern democratic principles. Through engaging, hands-on activities such as creating resumes or Instagram pages for these thinkers, students will connect historical ideas to contemporary democratic systems, with accommodations to support diverse learning needs. By collaborating with civic organizations and participating in a 'Living Library' event, students will critically examine how these philosophical ideas continue to shape governance today. The project emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and effective communication, culminating in a 'Digital Democracy Showcase' that highlights students' insights and reflections.

Learning goals

Students will explore the influence of Enlightenment philosophers on modern democracy, focusing on critical analysis and role-play to deepen their understanding. They will enhance digital literacy by creating resumes or Instagram pages, effectively communicating the relevance of these ideas today. Through discussions with civic organizations and peer review, students will refine communication and critical thinking skills, with accommodations to support language-based learning disabilities. The project promotes self-directed learning and reflection, fostering identity and belonging within democratic contexts.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSS-ID.C.7 - Interpret the slope (rate of change) and the intercept (constant term) of a linear model in the context of the data.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-CN.C.9 - (+) Know the Fundamental Theorem of Algebra; show that it is true for quadratic polynomials.
  • [Massachusetts] N.M.P.08 - Explain how a musical work is connected to a particular cultural, historical context where it was created.
  • [Massachusetts] 12.3.MH.1 - Describe both positive (e.g., developmental assets, protective factors, resilience, supportive adult relationships) and negative factors (e.g., trauma, adversity, adverse childhood experiences) that can impact mental and emotional health and well-being. [HE; SE]
  • [Massachusetts] 6.ss - Describe and document bowel movements.
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 create a resume or Instagram Page for an Enlightenment philosopher, showcasing their ideas and contributions to democratic principles. They will also design infographics illustrating the core ideas of each philosopher and their relevance to modern democracy, with an emphasis on visual clarity and accessibility. These products will be displayed in a 'Digital Democracy Showcase' as part of a virtual gallery, allowing for community engagement and discussion. Additionally, students will participate in a 'Living Library' event, embodying philosophers and engaging in role-play interviews to deepen understanding and communication skills, with support for language-based learning needs.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Living Library' event where students embody Enlightenment philosophers and participate in role-play interviews with peers. To support students with language-based learning disabilities, provide visual aids and structured interview prompts to facilitate understanding and engagement. This interactive experience will allow students to explore the influence of Enlightenment ideas on contemporary democratic systems, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.

Exhibition

Students will participate in a 'Digital Democracy Showcase,' where they will present their Instagram pages of Enlightenment philosophers in a virtual gallery accessible to the school community and partner organizations. This exhibition will invite comments and discussions, allowing students to engage with viewers on the relevance of these philosophers' ideas to contemporary democratic principles. The showcase will also feature a series of infographics created by the students, illustrating each philosopher's core ideas and their impact on modern democracy, displayed both digitally and physically. To support students with language-based learning disabilities, provide visual aids and simplified text options to ensure full participation and understanding.