High School, College Grades
Project
15 weeks
Linguistic Culture Quest: Walk, Learn, Connect!
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Purpose
The purpose of this project is to immerse students in the rich linguistic and cultural tapestry of their neighborhood, fostering a deeper understanding of multilingual environments and their impact on cognitive and cultural dynamics. Through hands-on interactions with community members and local businesses, students will explore the practical applications of language in diverse contexts, enhancing their research, digital literacy, and critical thinking skills. By creating cultural maps, documentary videos, and a mobile app, students will document and share their insights, contributing to a broader appreciation of the neighborhood's linguistic diversity.
Learning goals
Students will engage in immersive language practice and develop research skills by exploring the linguistic and cultural diversity of their neighborhood. They will enhance digital literacy through the creation of multimedia presentations and documentary videos, utilizing digital storytelling tools. Critical thinking and reflection will be cultivated as students document their experiences in a digital portfolio, fostering an evolving understanding of multilingual environments. Additionally, students will collaborate to design a mobile app, applying their knowledge to create an interactive guide that showcases the neighborhood’s linguistic richness.
Standards
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.W.7: Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects based on focused questions, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.SL.4: Present information, findings, and supporting evidence such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.CCRA.R.7: Integrate and evaluate content presented in diverse media and formats, including visually and quantitatively, as well as in words.
Products
Students will create a mobile app that acts as a digital guide to the neighborhood's linguistic culture walk, featuring their own audio guides, cultural trivia, and interactive maps. They will also produce a documentary video capturing their experiences and insights from the project, which will be shared with peers and community stakeholders. Additionally, students will design a cultural map of the neighborhood, highlighting linguistic diversity and cultural landmarks, to be presented during a community exhibition.
Launch
Kick off the project with a neighborhood linguistic scavenger hunt, where students explore the area to identify and document signs, menus, and conversations in various languages. This activity will introduce them to the linguistic diversity of the community and prompt initial discussions on the role of language in cultural identity and commerce. Students will use their findings to create a preliminary map of linguistic hotspots, setting the stage for deeper exploration and collaboration with community partners.
Exhibition
Invite community partners, local artists, and stakeholders to the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase,' where students display their cultural maps and documentary videos in a gallery-style setting. Encourage interactive engagement by featuring student-created mobile app guides, allowing attendees to explore the neighborhood's linguistic diversity through audio guides and interactive maps. Enhance the experience with live storytelling sessions and multimedia presentations, providing a platform for students to share their insights and personal growth throughout the project.
Plan
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Kickoff Meeting - Introduce the project purpose, essential question, and goals. Discuss the significance of multilingual environments in cognitive and cultural contexts.
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Activity 2: Neighborhood Linguistic Scavenger Hunt - Students explore the local area to identify and document signs, menus, and snippets of conversations in various languages. They record observations and take photos for later discussion.
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Activity 3: Preliminary Map Creation - Using their findings from the scavenger hunt, students work in groups to create initial drafts of a linguistic hotspot map, marking areas with notable linguistic diversity.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Initial Draft of the Linguistic Hotspot Map - Groups submit a rough map highlighting areas of linguistic interest based on their scavenger hunt observations.
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange the kickoff meeting venue and prepare an engaging presentation to introduce the project.
2. Prep Task 2: Develop guidelines and safety instructions for the scavenger hunt, including a map of the neighborhood and suggested areas to explore. 3. Prep Task 3: Gather and distribute materials for map-making, such as large paper, markers, and digital tools for those who prefer digital drafts. |
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| Week 2 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Analyze Findings - Students gather in their groups to analyze observations and photos from the scavenger hunt. They discuss patterns and notable linguistic features they recorded, focusing on how these elements contribute to cultural identity and cognitive flexibility.
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Activity 2: Research and Interview Planning - Students identify local business owners and community members to interview. They formulate interview questions that explore how these individuals use multiple languages in their daily interactions and business operations.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: List of Interview Questions - Each group submits a list of thoughtfully crafted questions aimed at understanding the role of language in local commerce and culture.
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to a computer lab or library resources for students to conduct preliminary research on local businesses and cultural landmarks.
2. Prep Task 2: Create a guide on effective interview techniques, including respectful communication and active listening skills. 3. Prep Task 3: Coordinate with community partners and local businesses to schedule interviews, ensuring students have opportunities to engage with diverse voices in the neighborhood. |
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| Week 3 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Conduct Interviews - In small groups, students conduct interviews with local business owners and community members. They focus on gathering information about the use of multiple languages in daily operations and cultural interactions, using the questions prepared last week.
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Activity 2: Begin Digital Portfolio - Students start building their digital portfolios by selecting and organizing their initial findings and reflections. They include photos from the scavenger hunt, interview notes, and personal reflections on their experiences and insights.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Interview Summaries - Each group compiles and submits a summary of their interviews, highlighting key insights on the role of language in local commerce and culture.
2. Deliverable 2: Initial Digital Portfolio Entries - Students submit the first entries of their digital portfolios, including photos, interview notes, and personal reflections. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Ensure all interview appointments and schedules are confirmed with local businesses and community members.
2. Prep Task 2: Provide students with access to digital tools and platforms required to start their digital portfolios, including tutorials on how to use these tools effectively. 3. Prep Task 3: Create a reflection guide to help students articulate their thoughts and insights about the linguistic and cultural elements they've encountered so far. |
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| Week 4 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Cultural Research and Mapping - Students will delve deeper into the cultural and linguistic history of the neighborhood. Using library resources and online databases, they will research different languages spoken in the area and their cultural significance. Each group will then update their cultural maps, incorporating historical context and cultural landmarks.
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Activity 2: Digital Portfolio Enhancement - Students will expand their digital portfolios by adding new artifacts from their research. This includes historical insights, updated cultural maps, and reflections on how these elements contribute to a broader understanding of the neighborhood's linguistic diversity.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Enhanced Cultural Map - Groups submit an updated version of their cultural maps, integrating research findings and historical context.
2. Deliverable 2: Digital Portfolio Update - Each student submits an enhanced digital portfolio entry, including new research artifacts and reflections on their learning progress. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to research resources, including library access and online database subscriptions, to facilitate students' cultural and linguistic research.
2. Prep Task 2: Prepare a guide on integrating research findings into cultural maps, including examples of historical context and cultural significance. 3. Prep Task 3: Provide feedback on initial digital portfolio entries and offer guidance on incorporating new research artifacts and reflections. |
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| Week 5 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Video Documentary Planning - Students collaborate in groups to plan their documentary videos. They outline their narrative, decide on key themes, and allocate roles and responsibilities for filming and editing.
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Activity 2: Multimedia Presentation Skills Workshop - Students participate in a workshop focused on multimedia presentation skills. They learn how to effectively use video editing software, incorporate digital storytelling tools, and enhance their narrative with audio and visual elements.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Documentary Video Plan - Each group submits a detailed plan for their documentary video, including a storyboard, list of interview clips to include, and roles assigned to group members.
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange for access to video editing software and digital storytelling tools, ensuring students have the resources needed for their documentary video production.
2. Prep Task 2: Prepare a multimedia presentation skills workshop, including tutorials and resources on video editing, digital storytelling, and effective communication techniques. 3. Prep Task 3: Provide feedback on documentary video plans, offering guidance on narrative structure, thematic focus, and technical aspects of video production. |
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| Week 6 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Documentary Video Footage Collection - Students begin gathering video footage for their documentaries. They revisit local businesses and cultural landmarks to capture interviews, community activities, and environmental shots that reflect linguistic diversity.
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Activity 2: Peer Review and Feedback Session - Students hold a peer review session where they share their cultural maps and digital portfolios with classmates. They provide constructive feedback on each other's work, focusing on clarity, engagement, and cultural insights, and identify areas for improvement.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Raw Video Footage - Each group submits raw video clips captured from their visits to local businesses and community spaces, along with a brief description of the content and its relevance to their documentary narrative.
2. Deliverable 2: Peer Feedback Summary - Students submit a summary of feedback received during the peer review session, outlining suggested improvements and their plans to address them in future revisions. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Coordinate with community partners and local businesses to ensure students have permission and access to film in designated areas.
2. Prep Task 2: Provide students with guidelines and best practices for capturing high-quality video footage, including tips on lighting, sound, and framing. 3. Prep Task 3: Create feedback forms and discussion prompts to structure the peer review session, ensuring that feedback is specific, actionable, and supportive. |
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| Week 7 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Documentary Video Editing - Students use video editing software to begin compiling their documentary videos. They organize their raw footage, incorporate interviews, and select audio and visual elements that enhance their narrative.
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Activity 2: Cultural Festival Planning - In collaboration with neighborhood businesses and community partners, students plan the cultural festival. They discuss logistics, set up interactive cultural booths, and decide on activities that highlight the linguistic diversity of the area.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Edited Video Draft - Each group submits a draft version of their documentary video, showcasing their current progress in editing and narrative development.
2. Deliverable 2: Cultural Festival Plan - Students submit a detailed plan for the cultural festival, including an outline of activities, roles and responsibilities, and a schedule of events. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Ensure access to video editing software and provide additional tutorials or resources for students needing extra support with editing techniques.
2. Prep Task 2: Coordinate with local businesses and community partners to confirm participation in the cultural festival and determine logistical requirements. 3. Prep Task 3: Prepare a checklist or template for students to use in organizing their cultural festival plan, encouraging comprehensive coverage of all necessary details. |
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| Week 8 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Finalize Documentary Videos - Students finalize their documentary videos by refining the narrative, ensuring smooth transitions, and incorporating feedback received from peers and community partners. They focus on creating a compelling story that highlights linguistic diversity and cultural insights.
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Activity 2: Mock Exhibition and Presentation - Students participate in a mock exhibition where they present their documentary videos and cultural maps to classmates. This allows them to practice their presentation skills, receive additional feedback, and make necessary improvements before the actual community exhibition.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Final Documentary Video - Each group submits the finalized version of their documentary video, ready for presentation at the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase.'
2. Deliverable 2: Exhibition Presentation Plan - Students submit a detailed plan for their exhibition presentation, including talking points, presentation order, and any multimedia elements they will use. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Review and provide feedback on the initial edited video drafts, focusing on narrative clarity, engagement, and technical quality.
2. Prep Task 2: Organize a mock exhibition setting in the classroom, including necessary equipment for video presentations and space for cultural map displays. 3. Prep Task 3: Develop a rubric for students to use while practicing their presentations, focusing on key areas such as clarity, engagement, and cultural insights shared during the exhibition. |
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| Week 9 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: App Content Development - Students work in groups to create content for the mobile app, including audio guides, cultural trivia, and interactive map elements. They use their research and insights from previous weeks to ensure the app is informative and engaging.
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Activity 2: Mid-Project Check-In with Community Partners - Students present their current progress on cultural maps, documentary videos, and app content to local business owners and community members. They gather feedback to ensure authenticity and make necessary adjustments.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: App Content Draft - Each group submits a draft version of their mobile app content, including text, audio, and interactive elements.
2. Deliverable 2: Feedback Summary - Students submit a summary of feedback received from community partners, outlining key suggestions and how they plan to incorporate these into their project. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to app development tools and platforms, providing tutorials or support for students unfamiliar with app design.
2. Prep Task 2: Coordinate with community partners to schedule mid-project check-ins, ensuring they are available to review student progress and provide feedback. 3. Prep Task 3: Prepare a feedback guide to help students effectively capture and reflect on community partner insights, focusing on cultural accuracy and engagement. |
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| Week 10 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: App Development Workshop - Students attend a workshop to enhance their skills in using app development tools. They refine their mobile app content, focusing on user experience and functionality.
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Activity 2: Interactive Map Finalization - Students finalize the interactive maps for their mobile app, ensuring all cultural landmarks and linguistic hotspots are accurately represented with engaging multimedia elements.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Refined Mobile App Content - Each group submits a polished version of their app content, incorporating feedback and ensuring a seamless user experience.
2. Deliverable 2: Completed Interactive Map - Groups submit the final version of their interactive maps, ready to be integrated into the mobile app. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to advanced app development tools and provide additional resources or tutorials for students to refine their app content.
2. Prep Task 2: Set up a workshop with an app development expert or guest speaker to offer insights and guidance on enhancing user experience and functionality. 3. Prep Task 3: Review interactive map drafts and provide feedback on cultural accuracy and user engagement, ensuring all necessary elements are included. |
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| Week 11 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: App Testing and User Feedback - Students conduct user testing of their mobile apps by engaging peers and community members in trial runs. They observe user interactions, gather feedback on app usability, and note areas for improvement.
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Activity 2: Final App Revisions - Based on the feedback received during user testing, students work in groups to implement necessary changes to their mobile app. They focus on enhancing the user experience, ensuring accessibility, and resolving any technical issues identified.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: User Feedback Report - Each group submits a report summarizing the feedback collected during app testing sessions, highlighting key insights and areas identified for improvement.
2. Deliverable 2: Updated Mobile App - Groups submit the revised version of their mobile app, incorporating user feedback and ensuring it is ready for presentation at the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase.' |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange a session with community members and peers for app testing, ensuring a diverse range of users to provide comprehensive feedback.
2. Prep Task 2: Develop a feedback form or digital survey to guide users in providing structured and actionable feedback on the app's usability and content. 3. Prep Task 3: Provide access to app development tools and support resources to assist students in implementing final revisions and addressing technical challenges. |
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| Week 12 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: App Launch Strategy Development - Students collaborate in their groups to develop a comprehensive strategy for launching their mobile app. They plan promotional activities, identify target audiences, and create marketing materials such as flyers, social media posts, and a press release to generate interest in their app and the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase.'
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Activity 2: Exhibition Setup and Rehearsal - Students organize and set up their exhibition space for the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase.' They rehearse their presentations, ensure all multimedia elements are functioning properly, and coordinate with community partners to finalize exhibition logistics.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: App Launch Strategy Document - Each group submits a detailed document outlining their app launch strategy, including promotional activities, target audience analysis, and marketing materials.
2. Deliverable 2: Exhibition Setup Checklist - Students submit a checklist confirming the setup of their exhibition space, including all necessary equipment, presentation materials, and coordination with community partners. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to resources for creating marketing materials, such as design software and printing services.
2. Prep Task 2: Coordinate with community partners to confirm their participation in the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase' and finalize exhibition logistics. 3. Prep Task 3: Provide students with feedback and guidance on their app launch strategies, ensuring they consider diverse promotional methods and audience engagement techniques. |
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| Week 13 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Final Exhibition Rehearsal - Students conduct a full run-through of their exhibition presentations, focusing on timing, clarity, and engagement. They practice delivering their cultural maps, documentary videos, and mobile app demonstrations to classmates, incorporating feedback to enhance their presentations.
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Activity 2: Community Engagement Workshop - Students participate in a workshop focused on effective communication and interaction with community members during the exhibition. They role-play different scenarios, practice answering questions, and refine their storytelling techniques to ensure meaningful engagement with exhibition attendees.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Final Presentation Materials - Each group submits the finalized version of all materials needed for their exhibition presentation, including cultural maps, documentary videos, and mobile app demonstrations, ensuring all elements are cohesive and ready for public display.
2. Deliverable 2: Community Engagement Plan - Groups submit a plan outlining strategies for interacting with exhibition attendees, including key talking points, anticipated questions, and methods for encouraging audience participation and feedback. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Arrange access to the exhibition space for rehearsal, ensuring all multimedia equipment is available and functioning for practice sessions.
2. Prep Task 2: Develop a workshop outline and materials for the community engagement workshop, including role-playing scenarios and communication strategies. 3. Prep Task 3: Provide feedback on final presentation materials, ensuring clarity, cohesiveness, and cultural sensitivity, and offer guidance on effective audience engagement techniques. |
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| Week 14 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: Final Exhibition Setup - Students collaborate to set up their exhibition space for the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase.' They arrange cultural maps, documentary viewing stations, and mobile app demonstration areas. Students also conduct final checks on all multimedia equipment to ensure everything functions smoothly during the exhibition.
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Activity 2: Peer Review and Final Feedback Session - Students participate in a final peer review session where they present their complete exhibition setup to classmates. They provide and receive feedback on presentation clarity, engagement, and storytelling effectiveness, making any last-minute adjustments to ensure their display is ready for public viewing.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Complete Exhibition Setup Confirmation - Each group submits a checklist confirming that their exhibition space is fully arranged, equipped, and ready for the showcase, with all necessary materials and equipment in place.
2. Deliverable 2: Final Feedback Incorporation Summary - Students submit a summary of feedback received during the peer review session, outlining any adjustments made to their presentation based on peer and teacher input. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Secure the exhibition venue, ensuring it is available for setup and that all necessary equipment, such as projectors and screens, are in working order.
2. Prep Task 2: Provide students with a checklist for exhibition setup, covering all elements such as signage, multimedia displays, and interactive stations. 3. Prep Task 3: Facilitate the peer review session by providing a structured format for feedback and ensuring that all students have time to present and receive constructive advice. |
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| Week 15 | Day 1 | Day 2 |
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| Activities |
Activity 1: 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase' Execution - Students engage in the final presentation of their cultural maps, documentary videos, and mobile app demonstrations. They interact with community partners, local artists, and attendees, sharing insights and facilitating discussions on multilingual environments.
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Activity 2: Reflection and Celebration - Students gather after the exhibition to reflect on their experiences, discuss learnings, and celebrate the completion of their project. They finalize their digital portfolios with reflections on personal growth and project outcomes.
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| Deliverables |
1. Deliverable 1: Successful Execution of the 'Linguistic Mosaic Showcase' - Feedback and engagement from attendees are documented.
2. Deliverable 2: Completed Digital Portfolio - Students submit their finalized digital portfolios, capturing their entire learning journey, reflections, and key artifacts from the project. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prep Task 1: Coordinate with community partners and ensure all logistics for the showcase are in place, including confirming attendance, setting up the venue, and organizing multimedia equipment.
2. Prep Task 2: Prepare a closing session for reflections and celebrations, including prompts for discussion and a space for students to share their achievements. 3. Prep Task 3: Arrange for feedback collection from showcase attendees to assess the impact and success of the event, and prepare a summary report to share with students and community partners. |
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