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7th Grade  Project 4 weeks

News Ninjas: Write, Edit, Publish!

ISABEL M
CCSS.Math.Content.7.NS.A.2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Students will collaboratively create a school newspaper that captures the diverse voices and stories within their community, addressing both community assets and needs. Through this project, they will engage in real-world journalism tasks such as writing, editing, and layout design, while also applying mathematical skills to manage budgets and resources. By partnering with Boyle Heights Beat, students will gain insights from professional journalists, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. This hands-on experience will encourage self-directed learning as students reflect on their progress and communicate their findings through published articles.

Learning goals

Students will collaboratively produce a school newspaper, developing skills in journalism, writing, editing, and layout design. They will apply mathematical concepts by managing budgets and calculating publication costs, integrating CCSS.Math.Content.7.NS.A.2 standards. Throughout the project, students will engage in self-directed learning by using feedback to refine their work, fostering an academic mindset by exploring their identity and role within the school community. They will practice effective communication by presenting their articles and reflecting on their learning, while also employing critical thinking and problem-solving to address real-world topics and challenges relevant to their peers. Additionally, students will connect with community partners like Boyle Heights Beat to incorporate community insights and address local needs, enriching their understanding and contributions.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.7.NS.A.2 - Apply and extend previous understandings of multiplication and division and of fractions to multiply and divide rational numbers.
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 produce a school newspaper, featuring articles on school events and topics of interest, while integrating community-connected pieces that reflect local assets and needs. Throughout the project, they will develop and refine their writing, editing, and layout design skills. Each student will contribute at least one article, and the final newspaper will be published and distributed within the school community. Additionally, students will present their work to peers and community partners, such as Boyle Heights Beat, fostering effective communication and critical reflection.

Launch

Begin the school newspaper project with an interactive workshop led by journalists from Boyle Heights Beat, who will share their experiences and discuss the role of community journalism. Students will engage in a collaborative brainstorming session to identify relevant school and community topics, while considering how their newspaper can address local needs and interests. This activity will help students connect with community assets and take initiative in defining their roles and contributions to the project.

Exhibition

Students will host a school-wide newspaper launch event, inviting families, community partners, and school community members, including representatives from Boyle Heights Beat, to celebrate their work. Each student will present their articles and design processes, highlighting how they addressed community needs and utilized local assets. The event will feature interactive stations with multimedia content, encouraging dialogue and feedback while showcasing the students' critical reflections and growth throughout the project.