Plan
Activities
Brainstorming and Topic Selection - Students engage in a group activity using a digital whiteboard to brainstorm and select research topics related to their community interests. This sets the stage for exploring Sooth.fyi and aligns with the essential question on utilizing research tools effectively (5 min).
Introduction to Sooth.fyi - The teacher demonstrates how to access and navigate Sooth.fyi, highlighting key features and steps to sign up using the NYC Public Schools account and group code. This activity focuses on understanding the core content of using Sooth.fyi (10 min).
Hands-On Research Exploration - Students conduct initial searches on Sooth.fyi for their chosen topics, aiming to identify credible sources and gather preliminary insights. This hands-on approach enhances research skills and aligns with the academic mindset competency (10 min).
Collection Creation - Students create a collection on Sooth.fyi of at least three articles related to their research topic. This activity is the product deliverable and integrates the essential question and critical thinking competency (10 min).
Peer Feedback and Reflection - Students pair up to share their collections and provide feedback, focusing on the strengths and areas for improvement in their research findings. They also reflect on the challenges faced and strategies used, supporting self-directed learning (5 min).
Slide Deck Preparation - Students start developing slide decks to present their research findings, including their collections and the strategies they used to overcome research challenges. This prepares them for the exhibition deliverable (5 min).
Deliverables
1. Brainstormed list of community-related research topics using the digital whiteboard.
2. A collection of at least three credible articles on Sooth.fyi related to chosen research topics.
3. A slide deck presentation summarizing research findings, strategies, and key features of Sooth.fyi.
4. Participation in a peer feedback session to provide and receive constructive critiques on research collections.
5. A reflective journal entry discussing the impact of Sooth.fyi on research quality and personal learning strategies.
6. Engagement in a Q&A session during the exhibition to discuss research challenges and solutions.
Preparation 1. Set up student accounts on Sooth.fyi and ensure all students have access.
2. Prepare a digital collaborative whiteboard tool for brainstorming community-related research topics.
3. Create a guide on using key features of Sooth.fyi, including sign-up, navigation, and article collection.
4. Organize a list of potential community partners related to research topics for students to consider.
5. Prepare a feedback form for peer review of research collections and slide presentations.
6. Set up a schedule for student presentations and Q&A sessions.