3rd Grade  Project 3 weeks

"Wonders Whirlwind: A 14-Day Discovery!"

Priscilla D
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Purpose

Students will embark on a creative journey to design and construct a 'wonder' that embodies the essence of their community, utilizing sustainable materials and innovative construction techniques. Through this project, they will gain a deeper understanding of cultural significance and environmental responsibility while developing skills in research, collaboration, and presentation. The hands-on experience culminates in a 'Wonder Fair,' where students showcase their models, fostering pride in their work and appreciation for the diverse wonders of the world.

Learning goals

Students will explore the concept of sustainable design by researching and selecting eco-friendly materials for their scale models or dioramas. They will develop skills in creative problem-solving and collaboration as they design a community wonder that reflects local culture and values. Through the 'Wonder Fair' presentation, students will enhance their communication abilities by articulating their design process and the significance of their creation.
Standards
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.3.7: Conduct short research projects that build knowledge about a topic.
  • Common Core - CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.3.4: Report on a topic or text, tell a story, or recount an experience with appropriate facts and relevant, descriptive details, speaking clearly at an understandable pace.
  • NGSS - 3-5-ETS1-2: Generate and compare multiple possible solutions to a problem based on how well each is likely to meet the criteria and constraints of the problem.

Products

Throughout the project, students will create detailed sketches and blueprints of their community wonder, highlighting sustainable materials and construction techniques. By the end, they will build scale models or dioramas that incorporate these eco-friendly elements. These creations will be showcased at the 'Wonder Fair,' where students will also prepare informative presentations to articulate their design choices and the cultural significance of their projects.

Launch

Begin the project with a dynamic 'Wonders of the World Virtual Tour,' where students engage with various wonders using virtual reality headsets or interactive online platforms. This immersive experience will ignite curiosity and provide inspiration, encouraging students to think creatively about their own community wonder. Following the tour, facilitate a brainstorming session where students discuss their observations and start envisioning their unique wonder, considering sustainable materials and construction techniques.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Wonder Fair' where they showcase their scale models or dioramas to classmates, teachers, and family members. Each student will present their creation, highlighting the sustainable materials and construction techniques used, and explain the cultural significance of their wonder in relation to their community. The fair will include interactive stations where visitors can learn about the eco-friendly options researched and the design process behind each model. This exhibition will serve as a celebration of students' creativity and understanding of how their community's unique characteristics can be represented through thoughtful design.