1-Pager
Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Activities
Project Launch Discussion - Facilitate a dynamic class discussion exploring camouflage and visibility in nature and humanity, introducing the essential question 'Is it better to stand out or blend in?' (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Camouflage Simulation Notebook: Students will complete initial entries, documenting observations and reflections on camouflage in nature and their surroundings.
Preparation 1. Gather and prepare a selection of images showing various animals using camouflage. Ensure images are clear and suitable for third graders.
2. Prepare a storytelling session by selecting a storybook or narrative that highlights an animal using camouflage.
3. Set up a discussion area in the classroom with visual aids (posters, drawings, or digital presentations) about camouflage and visibility.
4. Create and distribute Camouflage Simulation Notebooks for each student. Include a section for observations, reflections, and drawings.
5. Coordinate with the school psychiatrist to schedule a session in the coming weeks about SEL lessons on blending in and standing out.
Week 2
Day 2
Activities
Exploring Animal Habitats - Introduce students to various animal habitats and discuss how environment influences camouflage adaptations (20 min)
Habitat Observation Sketch - Students draw and label key features of animal habitats in their camouflage simulation notebooks (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed camouflage simulation notebook entries for animal habitat exploration and camouflage strategies.
2. Reflective journal entry connecting animal camouflage to human identity and visibility.
Preparation 1. Gather materials such as pictures, videos, and physical examples of animal habitats and camouflage adaptations.
2. Coordinate with the school psychiatrist to schedule the SEL lesson on blending in and standing out.
3. Provide notebooks for camouflage simulation observations and reflections.
4. Prepare discussion prompts and questions for the exploration and reflection activities.
Week 3
Day 3
Activities
Animal Habitat Exploration - Students research and discuss different animal habitats, identifying how these environments influence camouflage adaptations (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Initial sketches and concepts for the original animal design, including notes on habitats and camouflage strategies.
2. Draft of the two-voice poem, showcasing initial exploration of themes related to identity and visibility.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for animal research, such as books, articles, and online resources that provide information on habitats and camouflage adaptations.
2. Provide art supplies for sketching, including paper, pencils, colored pencils, and markers.
3. Coordinate with the community poetry expert to facilitate a session on crafting two-voice poems.
4. Create a rubric that outlines expectations for the two-voice poem, ensuring it addresses both sides of blending in and standing out.
Week 4
Day 4
Activities
Introduction to Animal Camouflage - Discuss different types of animal camouflage, such as mimicry and cryptic coloration, using images and videos (20 min)
Camouflage Simulation Notebook Activity - Students document examples of animal camouflage observed in the discussion in their notebooks, focusing on how these adaptations help with survival (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completion of detailed entries in the camouflage simulation notebook focusing on habitat and camouflage strategies.
2. Initial draft of the two-voice poem exploring themes of blending in and standing out.
Preparation 1. Prepare a collection of resources and images showcasing various animal habitats and camouflage techniques.
2. Coordinate with the school psychiatrist to facilitate a session that will help students reflect on blending in and standing out from a SEL perspective.
3. Provide writing materials and guidance documents to aid students in drafting their two-voice poems.
Week 5
Day 5
Activities
Animal Adaptation Brainstorm - Facilitate a collaborative brainstorming session where students generate ideas for unique camouflage and adaptation features for their original animal designs (20 min)
Adaptation Sketching - Students sketch initial designs of their original animals, integrating unique camouflage adaptations in their simulation notebooks (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed original animal design with documented camouflage adaptations.
2. Final draft of the two-voice poem that integrates feedback and meets rubric criteria.
Preparation 1. Gather art supplies for students to use in their animal design creations, including colored pencils, markers, paper, and any other needed materials.
2. Ensure the poetry expert is prepared to conduct a workshop focusing on poem revisions.
3. Prepare a rubric for peer feedback during the critique session, emphasizing constructive criticism and suggestions for improvement.
Week 6
Day 6
Activities
Poetry Exploration Session - Collaborate with the community poetry expert to introduce students to two-voice poems, highlighting the themes of blending in and standing out (20 min)
Brainstorming Two-Voice Poem - Students brainstorm ideas for their own two-voice poems, focusing on perspectives of blending in and standing out in animal and human contexts (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed and peer-reviewed design of the original animal with detailed notes on camouflage adaptations.
2. A refined draft of the two-voice poem ready for final performance.
Preparation 1. Ensure students have access to art supplies for finalizing their animal designs, such as colored pencils, paper, and any additional materials needed for 3D models if applicable.
2. Develop and distribute a peer review rubric that includes criteria for evaluating the creativity and functionality of the camouflage adaptations.
3. Schedule a session with the community poetry expert for poem performance practice.
4. Prepare a quiet and comfortable space for students to conduct peer reviews and poetry practice sessions.
Week 7
Day 7
Activities
Final Animal Design Presentation - Students present their original animal designs, explaining the unique camouflage adaptations and the habitat they've chosen for survival (20 min)
Two-Voice Poem Rehearsal - Students practice performing their two-voice poems, focusing on expressing the perspectives of blending in and standing out from both animal and human viewpoints (25 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed original animal design with a detailed explanation of its camouflage adaptations.
2. Finalized two-voice poem that effectively demonstrates the themes of blending in and standing out.
3. Rehearsed presentation script for the exhibition, including both the animal design and poem performance.
Preparation 1. Gather art supplies for last-minute adjustments to animal designs, such as colored paper, markers, and glue.
2. Arrange a space for the exhibition, ensuring it is equipped with tables and chairs for interactive stations.
3. Create a schedule and checklist for exhibition day activities, including time slots for poem performances and animal design presentations.
4. Coordinate with community partners to confirm their participation and roles during the exhibition.