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12th Grade  Project 3 weeks

Santa Synthesis: Jolly Chemistry Adventure!

Robbie S
C.11-12.4
C.11-12.3
C.11-12.4
C.11-12.3
RI.11-12.7
+ 9 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 12th-grade students in a comprehensive exploration of the cultural and historical evolution of Santa Claus, fostering critical thinking and effective communication skills. Through project-based activities, students will synthesize diverse interpretations of Santa across cultures and time periods, culminating in a digital narrative. This unit aims to develop students' ability to integrate and evaluate information, enhance their self-directed learning, and encourage reflection on their personal and academic growth.

Learning goals

Students will develop the ability to research and analyze diverse cultural and historical interpretations of Santa Claus, synthesizing this information into a cohesive digital narrative. They will enhance their skills in critical thinking and problem-solving by evaluating arguments and evidence from various texts, while also honing their effective communication skills through multimedia presentations. Additionally, students will cultivate self-directed learning by engaging in a feedback loop with peers and teachers, and they will reflect on their personal and academic growth throughout the unit.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.4 - Use digital resources to create, publish and update individual or shared products, taking advantage of technology's capacity to link to other information and to display information flexibly and dynamically. Use a variety of formats to cite sources.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.3 - Use narratives strategically in other modes of writing utilizing effective technique, well-chosen details and well-structured sequences for an intended purpose, including but not limited to introducing an issue and/or supporting a claim.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.4 - Use digital resources to create, publish and update individual or shared products, taking advantage of technology's capacity to link to other information and to display information flexibly and dynamically. Use a variety of formats to cite sources.
  • [Kentucky] C.11-12.3 - Use narratives strategically in other modes of writing utilizing effective technique, well-chosen details and well-structured sequences for an intended purpose, including but not limited to introducing an issue and/or supporting a claim.
  • [Kentucky] RI.11-12.7 - Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in different print and non-print formats in order to address a question or solve a problem.
  • [Kentucky] RI.11-12.8 - Evaluate the argument, specific claims and evidence in a text, assessing the validity, reasoning, relevance and sufficiency; analyze false statements and fallacious reasoning.
  • [Kentucky] RI.11-12.9 - Analyze documents of historical and literary significance, including how they address related themes and concepts.
  • [Kentucky] RL.11-12.9 - Demonstrate knowledge of various time periods to analyze how two or more texts from the same period treat similar themes or topics.
  • [Kentucky] RL.11-12.7 - Analyze diverse media interpretations of a story, drama or poem, evaluating how each version interprets the source 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.
  • 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 dynamic digital portfolio that showcases their research and synthesis of Santa Claus interpretations across cultures and time periods. This portfolio will include a 5-paragraph synthesis essay, videos, and infographics, demonstrating their ability to integrate and evaluate diverse sources. Additionally, students will design and present a multimedia reflection on their personal and academic growth during the unit. The final product will be a collaborative digital narrative that captures the evolution of Santa Claus, incorporating feedback and revisions throughout the process.

Launch

Kick off the unit with a dynamic 'Santa Debate Challenge' where students engage in a lively discussion, evaluating arguments and evidence from a variety of historical and cultural texts about Santa Claus. Encourage students to critically assess the validity and reasoning of each perspective, preparing them to synthesize these interpretations into a cohesive digital narrative. This interactive launch will set the stage for deeper exploration and analysis throughout the unit.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the unit, students will host a "Santa Synthesis Showcase," where they present their digital portfolios to peers, teachers, and community members. This exhibition will include interactive stations featuring multimedia presentations, synthesis essays, and engaging debates on the cultural and historical interpretations of Santa Claus. Attendees will have the opportunity to provide feedback, fostering a community dialogue and allowing students to reflect on their learning journey.