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8th Grade
- Lesson
- 30 minutes
"Everyday Objects: Unleash Creative Solutions!"
Purpose
The purpose of this lesson is to engage students in creative problem-solving by challenging them to think innovatively about everyday objects. Students will collaborate to brainstorm and develop unique solutions to common problems, fostering both critical thinking and teamwork skills. Through hands-on activities and peer feedback, the lesson aims to enhance students' ability to express ideas creatively and reflect on their learning process.
Learning goals
Students will develop the ability to think creatively and innovatively by repurposing everyday objects to address common problems. They will enhance their collaboration and communication skills through brainstorming sessions and peer feedback during the gallery walk. Additionally, students will practice articulating their creative process and the impact of their solutions through video presentations, fostering both self-expression and critical reflection.
Standards
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.1: Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.8.5: Integrate multimedia and visual displays into presentations to clarify information, strengthen claims and evidence, and add interest.
- NGSS - MS-ETS1-4: Develop a model to generate data for iterative testing and modification of a proposed object, tool, or process such that an optimal design can be achieved.
Week 1 | Day 1 |
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Activities |
Begin the lesson with a collaborative brainstorming session where students explore innovative ways to repurpose everyday objects. Organize the class into small groups and provide each group with a list of common items like paperclips, rubber bands, and empty plastic bottles. Encourage them to think divergently and jot down as many ideas as possible. The purpose is to stimulate creative thinking and collaboration. Guide students to focus on unexpected uses that can solve everyday problems, such as using a paperclip to organize cables. At the end of the activity, have each group share their top ideas with the class. (10 minutes)
Transition into a hands-on activity where students select one idea from their brainstorming session and create a simple prototype using the available materials. Encourage them to experiment and iterate on their designs, considering factors such as functionality and creativity. Provide basic crafting supplies like tape, scissors, and markers to aid in their creation. For example, students can transform a plastic bottle into a planter by cutting and decorating it. The aim is to allow students to physically explore their ideas and develop tangible solutions. Ensure students understand that the focus is on innovative thinking, not the perfection of the prototype. (10 minutes)
Conclude the lesson with a gallery walk where students display their prototypes around the room. Organize the class so that each student or group can view and provide constructive feedback on others' creations. Encourage students to focus on both the academic aspects, such as the creativity and practicality of the solution, and socio-emotional aspects, like teamwork and presentation skills. Facilitate the session by guiding students to offer specific, respectful feedback, such as suggesting alternative uses or improvements. This reflection activity fosters a deeper understanding of the creative process and enhances students' ability to articulate their thoughts and learn from peers. (10 minutes)
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Deliverables |
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Preparation |