"Ecuador Exploration: Volcanoes, Maps, and Culture!"

1st Grade

Project
6 weeks

"Ecuador Exploration: Volcanoes, Maps, and Culture!"

Aidee Jimenez

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse first graders in the vibrant culture and diverse geography of Ecuador through interactive and experiential learning. By engaging in activities such as map-making, science experiments, and cultural showcases, students will explore how Ecuador's unique regions and natural resources influence the daily lives of its people. This project aims to foster a deeper understanding of global cultures and environmental interconnections while developing critical thinking and collaboration skills.

Learning goals

Students will explore Ecuador's unique culture and geography, understanding how these elements influence daily life. They will investigate the impact of Ecuador's volcanic activity and climate on its environment and people. Through hands-on activities, students will learn about the diverse regions of Ecuador, including the Amazon rainforest, Andes mountains, and Galápagos Islands, and how these areas shape lifestyles and work. Additionally, students will gain insight into Ecuadorian traditions, products, and family life, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country's cultural diversity.

Standards

Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.1.3: Describe the connection between two individuals, events, ideas, or pieces of information in a text.
NGSS - 1-ESS1-2: Make observations at different times of year to relate the amount of daylight to the time of year.
Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.G.A.1: Distinguish between defining attributes (e.g., triangles are closed and three-sided) versus non-defining attributes (e.g., color, orientation, overall size); build and draw shapes to possess defining attributes.

Products

Students will create a 3D map of Ecuador using clay or paper mache, highlighting its key geographical features. They will also maintain a science journal documenting their observations from a volcanic eruption experiment and its impact on Ecuador. Additionally, students will prepare for a cultural showcase by learning and presenting Ecuadorian dances, songs, or traditional clothing, reflecting the country's diverse regions. These products will be displayed during a 'Gallery Walk,' where students share their learning journey and receive peer feedback.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive "Ecuador Day" experience. Transform the classroom into different regions of Ecuador, such as the Amazon rainforest, Andes mountains, and Galápagos Islands, using decorations and props. Introduce students to Ecuadorian culture through interactive stations where they can taste traditional foods, listen to Ecuadorian music, and try on traditional clothing. Facilitate a group discussion about the essential questions, sparking curiosity and excitement for the upcoming project.

Exhibition

Students will host an Ecuadorian Cultural Day, inviting family members and other classes to experience their learning. Each student will present their 3D map of Ecuador, explaining the geographical features and their significance. They will perform traditional Ecuadorian dances or songs and showcase their science journals detailing the volcanic experiment. The event will also feature a tasting station with simple Ecuadorian foods prepared by the students, highlighting the connection between natural resources and cultural cuisine. This exhibition will provide a platform for students to share their insights and celebrate the diverse culture and geography of Ecuador.

Week 1	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Introduction to Ecuador - Transform the classroom into different regions of Ecuador and introduce students to its culture, music, and traditional clothing through interactive stations. (30 min)	Exploring Ecuador's Map - Begin constructing a 3D map of Ecuador using clay or paper mache, focusing on identifying the Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and Galápagos Islands. (30 min)	Ecuador's Geographical Features - Continue building the 3D map, adding details and labels to the key geographical features, and discuss how these regions influence the way people live. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete the base layer of the 3D map of Ecuador, identifying and labeling the key regions: Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and Galápagos Islands.
Preparation	1. Gather decorations and props to transform the classroom into different regions of Ecuador. 2. Prepare traditional Ecuadorian foods, music recordings, and clothing for the interactive stations. 3. Acquire clay or paper mache materials for the 3D map-making activity. 4. Create a visual presentation or handouts with images and basic facts about Ecuador's geographical features.

Week 2	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Volcano Exploration - Introduce the concept of volcanoes, focusing on their role in Ecuador's geography and environment through storytelling and visual aids. (30 min)	Volcanic Eruption Experiment - Conduct a hands-on science experiment simulating a volcanic eruption using baking soda and vinegar, and observe the effects. (30 min)	Observations and Reflections - Document observations from the volcanic eruption experiment in a science journal, discussing how Ecuador's volcanic activity impacts its people and environment. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Complete the Andes Mountains and Amazon Rainforest sections of the 3D map of Ecuador.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for map-making, including clay or paper mache, paints, brushes, and reference images of Ecuador's geography. 2. Prepare a brief presentation or video about Ecuador's key geographical features to support student understanding. 3. Set up a work area with tables covered in plastic or newspaper to protect surfaces from clay or paper mache.

Week 3	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Weather and Climate Exploration - Introduce Ecuador's diverse climate zones and discuss how weather influences daily activities and celebrations through stories and visuals. (30 min)	Ecuadorian Celebrations - Create a classroom mural depicting Ecuadorian festivals, highlighting how climate affects these celebrations. (30 min)	Natural Resources and Products - Investigate Ecuador's natural resources by examining samples and discussing how they are used to create products and foods. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Completed weather chart illustrating climate differences and their impact on daily life in Ecuador. 2. Mini rainforest ecosystem in a jar, demonstrating understanding of the Amazon region's biodiversity. 3. Group performance of an Ecuadorian dance or song for the cultural showcase.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for creating weather charts, including printable maps of Ecuador and art supplies. 2. Prepare jars, soil, small plants, and other materials needed for creating mini rainforest ecosystems. 3. Collect resources for learning Ecuadorian dances or songs, such as instructional videos or visiting a dance instructor.

Week 4	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Cultural Storytelling - Share traditional Ecuadorian stories and legends, discussing cultural values and practices highlighted in the narratives. (30 min)	Traditional Crafts - Create simple Ecuadorian crafts, such as weaving or beadwork, to understand the role of art in cultural expression. (30 min)	Ecuadorian Cuisine Exploration - Learn about traditional Ecuadorian foods and discuss how climate and geography influence dietary habits. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Completed science journal entry documenting the volcanic eruption simulation and its potential impact on Ecuador. 2. Partially completed 3D map of Ecuador, highlighting the Andes mountains, Amazon rainforest, and Galápagos Islands with labels.
Preparation	1. Gather materials for the volcanic eruption experiment, including baking soda, vinegar, food coloring, and a model volcano. 2. Prepare clay or paper mache supplies for the 3D map activity, including colored clay, sculpting tools, and reference maps of Ecuador. 3. Ensure access to books or digital resources that provide visuals and information about Ecuador's geography and regions.

Week 5	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Ecuadorian Dance Practice - Introduce and practice a traditional Ecuadorian dance, focusing on rhythm and movements unique to the culture. (30 min)	Song Rehearsal - Learn and rehearse a simple Ecuadorian song, discussing its cultural significance and practicing pronunciation. (30 min)	Cultural Showcase Preparation - Collaborate to finalize preparations for the cultural showcase, assigning roles and practicing presentations for dances, songs, and map explanations. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Completed 3D map of Ecuador with labeled geographical features. 2. Science journal entries documenting the volcanic eruption experiment and its impact on Ecuador.
Preparation	1. Ensure sufficient clay or paper mache, small flags or labels, markers, and any additional decorative materials for the map-making activity. 2. Prepare materials for the volcanic eruption experiment, including baking soda, vinegar, food coloring, and a model volcano (could be made from clay or a plastic cup). 3. Set up the classroom for the 'Gallery Walk,' arranging tables to display students' 3D maps and journals. Prepare feedback forms or sticky notes for peer comments.

Week 6	Day 1	Day 2	Day 3
Activities	Ecuadorian Cultural Day Setup - Collaborate to arrange the classroom for the cultural showcase, setting up stations for maps, dances, and foods. (30 min)	Final Rehearsal - Conduct a full run-through of the cultural showcase presentations, focusing on smooth transitions and clear explanations. (30 min)	Ecuadorian Cultural Day Exhibition - Host the cultural showcase, presenting maps, performing dances, singing songs, and sharing Ecuadorian foods with guests. (30 min)
Deliverables	1. Completed 3D map of Ecuador highlighting key geographical features. 2. Science journal documenting observations and insights from the volcanic experiment. 3. Participation in the Cultural Showcase, presenting Ecuadorian dances, songs, or traditional clothing.
Preparation	1. Ensure materials for setting up the 'Gallery Walk' are available, such as tables and display boards. 2. Coordinate with families and other classes to attend the Cultural Showcase. 3. Prepare a simple script or talking points for students to use during their presentations. 4. Gather any additional props or music needed for the Cultural Showcase performances.