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6th Grade  Project 1 week

Hydro Heroes: Green Growth Pioneer Project

Mekayla S
MS-ESS2-4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Students will explore the intersection of hydroponics, climate change, and water usage to understand their impact on food security and environmental sustainability. By engaging with real-world gardening practices and community challenges, students will develop critical thinking skills and self-directed learning habits. Through collaboration with community partners and reflective discussions, students will create meaningful solutions and communicate their findings effectively, fostering a sense of belonging and active participation in their urban environment.

Learning goals

Students will explore the impact of hydroponics on urban food security and environmental sustainability, linking it to climate change and water usage. They will develop models to understand the water cycle, driven by solar energy and gravity, and apply these concepts to real-world hydroponic systems. Through self-directed learning and critical reflection, students will enhance their academic mindset and communication skills, culminating in a climate change PSA that advocates for actionable community change.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS2-4 - Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
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

Throughout the project, students will collaboratively create climate change PSA slideshows, Prezi presentations, or videos that highlight the benefits of hydroponics in urban settings. These products will incorporate data and insights gathered from their gardening experiences, emphasizing the connection between food security and environmental sustainability. As part of their exhibition, students will present their work in roundtable discussions, where they will propose actionable steps to local officials, such as advocating for urban hydroponic initiatives.

Launch

Kick off the project with an interactive workshop led by a local urban agriculture expert who can demonstrate the benefits and challenges of hydroponics in city environments. Students will engage in hands-on activities to set up and test their hydroponic systems, observing how these systems can be integrated into urban settings to enhance food security. This launch will include a group discussion on the essential question, allowing students to connect the workshop insights to broader themes of climate change and sustainability.

Exhibition

Students will present their climate change PSA slideshow, prezi, or video in a roundtable format, engaging with peers and an evaluator from another grade or subject. During the presentation, students will discuss their findings on hydroponics and its impact on urban food security and environmental sustainability. They will propose actionable steps, such as contacting local government officials or drafting letters to advocate for sustainable practices in their community. This exhibition will foster critical reflection and encourage students to communicate their ideas effectively, aiming to inspire real-world change.