Pre-k, Kindergarten, 1st, 2nd, 3rd Grades
Project
4 weeks
"History Happenings: School Stories Showcase"
Nurture and sustain relationships
Advocate for myself and others
Identify an issue or design challenge
Gather and organize original data
Develop an inquiry plan
+ 8 more
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Purpose
This project aims to immerse young learners in the rich tapestry of local history, using storytelling and creative expression to inspire meaningful school improvements. Through hands-on activities like puppet shows and community walks, students will connect with historical narratives to identify challenges and design solutions for their school environment. By engaging with community partners and reflecting on their learning, students will nurture relationships, advocate for positive change, and develop a deeper understanding of their role in shaping their community's future.
Learning goals
Students will develop the ability to nurture and sustain relationships by collaborating with peers and community partners. They will identify and address design challenges within their school environment, using historical stories as inspiration. Students will engage in inquiry by gathering and organizing original data, developing a plan to pursue their goals, and expressing their ideas through creative performances and presentations. They will connect with the natural world, nurture their identities, and learn from the past to inspire positive changes. Through reflection and community engagement, students will articulate their learning and growth, culminating in a showcase of their school improvement projects.
Standards
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.K.6: Speak audibly and express thoughts, feelings, and ideas clearly.
- Common Core - CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.1.MD.C.4: Organize, represent, and interpret data with up to three categories; ask and answer questions about the total number of data points.
- Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.2.7: Participate in shared research and writing projects.
Competencies
- Build Community - Nurture and sustain relationships (BC.1)
- Build Community - Advocate for myself and others (BC.2)
- Design Solutions - Identify an issue or design challenge (DS.1)
- Engage In Inquiry - Gather and organize original data (EI.4)
- Engage In Inquiry - Develop an inquiry plan (EI.2)
- Express Ideas - Define audience, purpose, and format (EXI.1)
- Express Ideas - Finalize and share my product or performance (EXI.4)
- Learn with Purpose - Develop a plan to pursue a goal (LI.1)
- Read The World - Find inspiration and ideas (RW.1)
- Read The World - Learn from the past (RW.4)
- Reason Quantitatively - Pose and solve problems (RQ.1)
- Sustain Well-Being - Nurture my identity (SW.1)
- Sustain Well-Being - Connect to the natural world (SW.4)
Products
Throughout the project, students will create a 'Reflection Journal' where they document their academic and emotional insights inspired by local historical stories. They will also design and implement school improvement projects, drawing inspiration from these stories and presenting them at a showcase event. Additionally, students will craft puppets and scripts for a 'Historical Puppet Show,' creatively expressing ideas and engaging the audience in a performance that highlights school improvements inspired by history.
Launch
Begin the project with a 'History Hunt' where students explore the school grounds to uncover hidden clues related to local historical stories. Each clue leads to a storytelling session with a community partner from the local historical society, sparking curiosity and setting the stage for the project's essential question. This interactive activity encourages students to connect with their environment and the stories of the past, while fostering excitement and anticipation for the learning journey ahead.
Exhibition
Students will host a vibrant 'Community Story Circle' where they share the stories and reflections collected during the project with community partners and families. This interactive exhibition will highlight how historical narratives inspired tangible school improvements, fostering meaningful dialogue about the impact of history on present-day changes. Through storytelling and discussion, students will articulate their learning journey, showcasing their understanding and application of historical insights in enhancing their school environment.
Plan
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
History Hunt Launch - Explore the school grounds to uncover hidden clues related to local historical stories, sparking curiosity and setting the stage for the project's essential question (60 min)
Storytelling Session - Listen to community partners from the local historical society share stories, allowing students to gather original data and find inspiration for school improvements (60 min)
Reflection Journal Introduction - Create a journal to document academic discoveries and emotional insights, connecting experiences with stories from the past (30 min)
Group Discussion - Discuss initial thoughts and ideas about how historical stories can inspire positive changes in the school, fostering a collaborative environment (30 min)
Closing Circle - Reflect on the day's activities and share one thing learned or felt during the History Hunt (30 min)
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Puppet Creation Workshop - Begin crafting puppets based on historical stories, expressing ideas creatively and engaging students in hands-on learning (60 min)
Gathering Inspiration - Explore additional resources from the historical society to find more ideas for school improvements (45 min)
Inquiry Plan Development - Collaborate in groups to develop an inquiry plan, focusing on areas of the school that can be improved using historical inspiration (45 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Document thoughts and observations from the puppet workshop and inquiry plan development (30 min)
Community Building Activity - Participate in team-building exercises to nurture relationships with peers (60 min)
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Storytelling Session - Attend another session with community partners to deepen understanding of local history and gather new data (60 min)
Problem Identification - Identify specific issues or design challenges within the school that could be addressed using historical inspiration (45 min)
Creative Expression - Continue developing puppets and scripts, focusing on historical narratives that relate to identified school challenges (45 min)
Reflection Journal Sharing - Share journal entries with peers, discussing emotional connections and academic insights (30 min)
Nature Connection - Explore the school environment, connecting historical stories to the natural world around them (60 min)
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Inquiry Plan Refinement - Refine the inquiry plan based on new insights and data gathered, ensuring alignment with historical inspirations (60 min)
Design Challenge Workshop - Begin brainstorming possible solutions for the identified school challenges, using historical narratives for guidance (60 min)
Puppet Show Rehearsal - Start rehearsing the puppet show, focusing on engaging the audience with creative storytelling (45 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Provide and receive feedback on puppet show ideas and designs, fostering collaborative improvement (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Reflect on the week's progress and share one insight from the storytelling sessions that impacted personal growth (45 min)
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Solution Development - Collaborate in groups to finalize solutions for school improvements, integrating historical inspiration into designs (60 min)
Puppet Show Script Writing - Finalize scripts for the puppet show, ensuring clarity of ideas and historical accuracy (45 min)
Reflection Journal Deep Dive - Spend time deeply reflecting on the week's activities and insights, focusing on personal and academic growth (45 min)
Community Connection - Engage with community partners to share ideas and gather additional feedback on school improvement plans (45 min)
Closing Celebration - Celebrate the achievements of the week and share one hope for the project's future impact on the school (45 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Students complete the first entry in their 'Reflection Journal,' documenting their insights and feelings about the History Hunt and storytelling session.
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| Preparation |
1. Prepare a map with hidden clues around the school grounds for the 'History Hunt.'
2. Coordinate with a community partner from the local historical society for a storytelling session. 3. Provide materials for students to create their 'Reflection Journal,' such as notebooks and drawing supplies. 4. Collect materials for puppet making, like felt, glue, scissors, and markers. |
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| Week 2 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Story Circle Preparation - Gather in small groups to discuss and reflect on the historical stories shared by the community partners, identifying key themes that inspire school improvements (40 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Write or draw in journals about personal connections to the historical stories and how they inspire changes in the school environment (30 min)
Creative Expression Brainstorm - Collaborate to brainstorm creative ways to express historical stories using puppets, focusing on audience engagement and storytelling (50 min)
Design Puppet Characters - Begin designing puppet characters based on historical figures or events, using various art materials to encourage creativity and expression (40 min)
Community Walk Planning - Develop a plan for the 'Community Walk,' selecting key areas of the school to highlight and connecting them to historical stories (40 min)
Wrap-Up and Share - Share ideas and progress with the class, fostering a supportive environment for feedback and collaboration (40 min)
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Puppet Creation Workshop - Continue crafting puppet characters, focusing on details and ensuring they accurately represent historical elements (60 min)
Script Writing Introduction - Introduce scriptwriting, highlighting story structure and dialogue, and begin drafting scripts for the historical puppet show (50 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Reflect on the puppet creation process and how it helps in understanding historical stories and school improvements (30 min)
Inquiry Planning Session - Work in teams to outline inquiry plans for gathering additional data about school improvement areas inspired by historical stories (40 min)
Community Partner Check-In - Meet with a community partner to share progress and receive insights or feedback on the project direction (30 min)
Collaborative Discussion - Engage in a group discussion about the challenges and solutions identified, encouraging peer support and idea exchange (30 min)
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Script Development - Continue developing scripts for the puppet show, incorporating feedback and refining dialogue (60 min)
Puppet Rehearsal - Practice puppet movements and character voices, focusing on expressive storytelling to engage the audience (50 min)
Data Gathering Expedition - Conduct a school walk to gather observations and data related to the identified areas for improvement (40 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Document findings from the data gathering expedition and relate them to the historical stories (30 min)
Storyboard Creation - Create storyboards for the puppet show to visualize the sequence of events and transitions (40 min)
Peer Review Session - Share storyboards and scripts with peers for constructive feedback and suggestions (20 min)
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Refine Puppet Show Scripts - Incorporate peer feedback to finalize scripts, ensuring clarity and historical accuracy (60 min)
Puppet Show Rehearsal - Conduct a full rehearsal of the puppet show, focusing on timing, expression, and storytelling cohesion (50 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Reflect on the rehearsal process, noting areas of strength and improvement (30 min)
Community Walk Script Development - Draft scripts for the 'Community Walk,' describing historical inspirations for school improvements (40 min)
Create Walk Signage - Design informative signage for each stop on the community walk, integrating historical facts and student reflections (30 min)
Team Check-In - Meet with team members to review progress and adjust plans as necessary, fostering collaboration and problem-solving (30 min)
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Puppet Show Dress Rehearsal - Perform a dress rehearsal of the puppet show with all props and scripts, preparing for the showcase event (60 min)
Finalize Community Walk Scripts - Finalize and practice scripts for the community walk, ensuring a clear narrative and connection to historical stories (40 min)
Reflection Journal Sharing - Share journal entries with peers, fostering a sense of community and shared learning experiences (30 min)
Community Partner Feedback Session - Present the puppet show and community walk plans to a community partner for final feedback and encouragement (50 min)
Reflection and Celebration - Reflect on the week's progress and celebrate successes, reinforcing the value of teamwork and creativity (30 min)
Plan Next Steps - Outline tasks and goals for the upcoming week, ensuring clarity and readiness for the showcase event (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. A group presentation outlining proposed school improvement ideas inspired by local historical stories, including sketches or models.
2. Updated entries in each student's 'Reflection Journal' detailing insights from the storytelling sessions and their group discussions. |
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| Preparation |
1. Coordinate with the local historical society to schedule storytelling sessions and ensure availability of community partners.
2. Prepare materials for group brainstorming and sketching activities, including large paper, markers, and craft supplies. 3. Set up a designated space for students to work collaboratively on their sketches or models. 4. Ensure that each student has a 'Reflection Journal' and time allocated for reflection activities. |
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| Week 3 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Historical Puppet Show Practice - Rehearse puppet shows focusing on storytelling techniques and audience engagement (60 min)
Refining School Improvement Ideas - Review and refine school improvement plans based on historical inspirations and peer feedback (45 min)
Community Partner Consultation - Meet with community partners to discuss historical context and gather additional insights for school projects (60 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Record reflections on the puppet show practice and consultation with community partners (30 min)
Team Building Game - Participate in a cooperative game to strengthen peer relationships and enhance teamwork skills (45 min)
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Puppet Show Script Enhancements - Enhance scripts based on feedback, ensuring historical accuracy and clarity (60 min)
Design Solutions Workshop - Focus on developing creative solutions for school improvements using historical narratives (60 min)
Community Story Circle Planning - Begin planning the structure and content of the Community Story Circle event (45 min)
Reflection Journal Sharing - Share reflections with a partner, discussing insights gained from design solutions and script enhancements (30 min)
Nature Exploration Activity - Connect historical stories to nature by exploring the school's outdoor areas (45 min)
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Final Puppet Show Rehearsal - Conduct a dress rehearsal of the puppet show, focusing on timing and delivery (60 min)
School Improvement Presentation Prep - Prepare presentation materials to showcase school improvement ideas inspired by history (60 min)
Community Story Circle Rehearsal - Practice sharing stories and reflections for the upcoming event (45 min)
Peer Review Session - Exchange feedback on presentations and puppet shows with classmates (30 min)
Reflection Journal Update - Update journals with new insights from rehearsals and peer reviews (45 min)
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Showcase Event Setup - Set up the space for the showcase event, organizing displays and ensuring everything is ready (60 min)
Final Presentation Practice - Perform a final run-through of school improvement presentations, focusing on clear communication (60 min)
Community Engagement Strategy - Develop strategies for engaging visitors during the Community Walk and Story Circle (45 min)
Reflection Circle - Reflect on personal growth throughout the project and share thoughts on the upcoming events (30 min)
Relaxation and Mindfulness Activity - Participate in a calming activity to prepare mentally and emotionally for showcase day (45 min)
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Showcase Event Execution - Present school improvement projects to community partners and families, articulating historical inspirations (90 min)
Community Walk - Guide visitors through the school, highlighting areas improved with historical insights (60 min)
Community Story Circle Event - Host the Community Story Circle, sharing stories and reflections with guests (45 min)
Celebration and Gratitude - Celebrate the successful completion of the project with peers and express gratitude to community partners (30 min)
Reflection Journal Conclusion - Write a concluding entry summarizing the learning journey and personal achievements throughout the project (15 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Draft presentation for the showcase event, detailing project goals, historical inspiration, and school improvements.
2. Finalized puppet designs and scripts for the 'Historical Puppet Show.' 3. Updated entries in the 'Reflection Journal,' documenting academic discoveries and emotional insights. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather art supplies for puppet creation, including fabric, scissors, glue, and markers.
2. Provide access to storytelling props and materials for script practice. 3. Setup space for practice presentations and the 'Community Story Circle,' ensuring all students can participate comfortably. 4. Coordinate with community partners for feedback on student projects and presentations. 5. Organize a schedule for students to rehearse their puppet performances. |
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| Week 4 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Puppet Show Final Rehearsal - Conduct a full rehearsal of the puppet show, ensuring creative expression and engagement with historical narratives (60 min)
Showcase Preparation - Prepare for the upcoming showcase event, organizing visual aids and materials that highlight school improvements inspired by history (60 min)
Reflection Journal Review - Review and update reflection journals, focusing on emotional insights and academic growth throughout the project (30 min)
Community Story Circle Planning - Plan the Community Story Circle, organizing roles and discussion topics to foster meaningful dialogue (45 min)
Essential Question Reflection - Reflect on the essential question, discussing how stories from the past have inspired positive changes in the school (45 min)
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Community Walk Rehearsal - Practice guiding visitors through the school, articulating school improvements and historical inspirations behind each change (60 min)
Final Solution Implementation - Implement final touches to school improvement projects, ensuring alignment with historical narratives (60 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Exchange feedback on showcase preparations and school improvements, fostering collaborative enhancement (45 min)
Puppet Show Dress Rehearsal - Conduct a dress rehearsal for the puppet show, focusing on audience engagement and performance quality (45 min)
Reflection Journal Sharing - Share reflection journals with peers, discussing insights gained and connections made throughout the project (30 min)
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Showcase Event Setup - Set up for the showcase event, arranging displays and organizing presentation materials (60 min)
Community Story Circle Execution - Host the Community Story Circle, sharing stories and reflections with community partners and families (60 min)
Puppet Show Performance - Perform the historical puppet show, engaging the audience with creative storytelling and school improvement highlights (45 min)
Reflection Circle - Reflect on the showcase and story circle experiences, sharing personal growth and project insights (45 min)
Celebration Planning - Plan a celebration for the project's completion, organizing activities and acknowledgments for participants (30 min)
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Community Walk Execution - Guide visitors through the school, explaining historical inspirations and improvements made, demonstrating learning and growth (60 min)
Project Reflection Discussion - Discuss the overall project journey, sharing successes and challenges encountered (60 min)
Reflection Journal Compilation - Compile final reflection journal entries, summarizing academic discoveries and emotional insights (45 min)
Celebration Preparation - Prepare for the project's celebration, setting up spaces and materials for the event (45 min)
Essential Question Wrap-Up - Conclude discussions on the essential question, summarizing how historical stories inspired changes in the school (30 min)
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Community Celebration - Host a celebration event, recognizing participants and sharing hopes for the future impact of the project (60 min)
Reflection Journal Sharing with Families - Share reflection journals with families, discussing personal and academic growth throughout the project (60 min)
Project Reflection Circle - Engage in a final reflection circle, discussing the project's impact on personal identity and community connections (45 min)
Closing Circle - Reflect on the entire project journey, sharing one key insight or learning that will influence future endeavors (45 min)
Farewell Activity - Participate in a farewell activity, celebrating achievements and nurturing relationships built during the project (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Historical Puppet Show performance
2. Completed Reflection Journal entries 3. Community Walk explanations 4. Participation in Community Story Circle |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for puppet making and scripts
2. Prepare the space for the puppet show and ensure all props are ready 3. Coordinate with community partners for the Community Walk and Story Circle 4. Arrange seating and audiovisual equipment for the puppet show audience 5. Print final copies of the Reflection Journals for students |
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