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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Activities
Medieval Marketplace Simulation - Experience a bustling medieval marketplace by assuming roles such as traders, scholars, and rulers, and engage in trading, storytelling, and cultural exchange to understand the interconnectedness of civilizations (45 min)
Reflection and Discussion - Reflect on the marketplace experience and discuss insights on how trade influenced the rise of powerful civilizations in Medieval Africa and the Islamic Empire (30 min)
Introduction to Project Options - Explore the different project options (graphic novel, museum exhibit, podcast, newspaper, board game) and select a project focus for the duration of the unit (30 min)
Brainstorming and Research - Begin brainstorming ideas for the chosen project focus; conduct preliminary research on relevant historical contexts and trade routes (45 min)
Project Planning - Develop a detailed project plan, including timelines, roles, and resources needed for the chosen project option (45 min)
Research and Source Gathering - Continue gathering information and resources necessary for the project, focusing on historical trade routes, goods, and cultural exchanges (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Each group submits a project proposal outlining their chosen project type, historical context, preliminary research, and team roles.
Preparation 1. Set up the classroom to resemble a medieval marketplace with themed decorations and station materials.
2. Prepare role cards for students, detailing their character's background and goals in the simulation.
3. Gather research resources, including books, articles, and digital content on Medieval Africa and the Islamic Empire.
4. Provide templates and guidelines for the project proposals, including criteria for successful completion.
Week 2
Day 4
Day 5
Day 6
Activities
Graphic Novel/Illustrated Storybook Drafting - Begin drafting the narrative and visual elements of a traveler's journey through Medieval Africa and the Islamic Empire, focusing on integrating historical context and imaginative storytelling (40 min)
Museum Exhibit Planning - Outline the key components of the museum exhibit, including maps, artifacts, and audio guides, to effectively showcase cultural and economic exchanges (35 min)
Podcast/Video Script Development - Develop scripts for 3-5 minute episodes in character, focusing on the roles of scholars, merchants, or rulers in historical trade and cultural exchange (45 min)
Time-Travel Newspaper Framework - Create a framework for the newspaper, including sections for articles, weather, interviews, and period-specific advertisements (30 min)
Trade Route Board Game Design - Begin designing the board game components, focusing on modeling the challenges and strategies of medieval trade and geography (40 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Conduct a peer review session where students present their project progress and receive constructive feedback to refine their work (35 min)
Deliverables
1. Draft of the graphic novel/illustrated storybook narrative
2. Outline of the museum exhibit, including selected artifacts and maps
3. Script for the first podcast/video series episode
4. Draft article for the time-travel newspaper
5. Prototype design of the trade route board game
Preparation 1. Gather resources such as historical texts, images, and maps for research
2. Provide art supplies (e.g., paper, markers, colored pencils) for storybook illustration
3. Set up audio/video recording equipment for podcast/video series development
4. Collect materials for museum exhibit artifacts (e.g., clay, fabric, craft supplies)
5. Prepare game design templates and materials for board game prototype creation
Week 3
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Activities
Graphic Novel/Illustrated Storybook Refinement - Focus on refining the narrative and illustrations by incorporating feedback from peers and ensuring historical accuracy and creative storytelling (40 min)
Museum Exhibit Component Creation - Begin creating the physical components of the museum exhibit, such as maps and artifact replicas, while planning the layout for the display (35 min)
Podcast/Video Recording - Record the first draft of podcast or video episodes, focusing on character portrayal and conveying historical dynamics effectively (45 min)
Time-Travel Newspaper Article Writing - Draft detailed articles and interviews for the newspaper, ensuring alignment with historical context and engaging storytelling (30 min)
Trade Route Board Game Prototype - Assemble and test the initial prototype of the board game, ensuring gameplay accurately reflects medieval trade challenges and strategies (40 min)
Iterative Feedback and Revision - Engage in a collaborative feedback session to refine all project components, emphasizing areas for improvement and next steps (35 min)
Deliverables
1. A refined draft of the graphic novel or illustrated storybook.
2. A completed museum exhibit plan, including audio guide recordings.
3. A recorded and edited podcast or video episode.
4. A draft version of the time-travel newspaper.
5. A functional prototype of the trade route board game.
Preparation 1. Provide access to historical resources and references for accurate narratives and exhibit details.
2. Ensure availability of art supplies for illustrations and exhibit components.
3. Set up recording equipment and software for podcasts and audio guides.
4. Prepare templates and guidelines for newspaper articles and advertisements.
5. Gather materials for board game creation, including game boards, tokens, and cards.
Week 4
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Activities
Final Graphic Novel/Illustrated Storybook Edits - Conduct final edits on the graphic novel or illustrated storybook, ensuring narrative coherence and visual appeal (45 min)
Museum Exhibit Assembly - Assemble the museum exhibit, organizing maps, artifacts, and audio guides for an engaging presentation (30 min)
Podcast/Video Finalization - Finalize podcast or video episodes by integrating feedback and enhancing audio or visual quality (45 min)
Time-Travel Newspaper Layout - Complete the newspaper layout, arranging articles, interviews, and advertisements for a cohesive presentation (30 min)
Trade Route Board Game Completion - Finalize the board game design by testing gameplay and refining rules for historical accuracy and engagement (45 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Prepare for the exhibition by organizing and rehearsing presentations of all projects for a cohesive showcase (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed graphic novel or illustrated storybook.
2. Fully assembled museum exhibit ready for presentation.
3. Recorded and edited podcast or video episodes.
4. Printed time-travel newspaper.
5. Finished trade route board game with instructions.
Preparation 1. Provide art supplies for final illustrations in the graphic novel.
2. Ensure access to recording equipment and editing software for podcasts/videos.
3. Supply materials for newspaper printing such as paper and ink.
4. Prepare presentation spaces for the museum exhibit, including display stands and audio equipment.
5. Organize a playtest session for the board game with all necessary components.