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6th Grade
- Project
- 8 weeks
Weather Wonders: Air Mass Magic!
Purpose
The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 6th-grade students in a comprehensive exploration of climate science and chemistry through hands-on, project-based activities. Students will develop critical thinking and inquiry skills as they investigate atmospheric interactions, model molecular structures, and analyze chemical reactions. By designing and presenting climate change awareness campaigns, they will connect scientific concepts to real-world environmental challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in protecting the Earth. Throughout the project, students will enhance their literacy skills by integrating reading and writing tasks, such as analyzing scientific texts, summarizing findings, and crafting persuasive arguments for their campaigns.
Learning goals
Students will develop a deep understanding of how the interactions of air masses and atmospheric conditions influence weather patterns and climate. They will create models to illustrate the atomic composition of matter and investigate chemical reactions, enhancing their grasp of scientific principles. Through engaging with real-world data and community partnerships, students will critically analyze the impact of human activities on climate change and design actionable strategies to raise awareness and promote environmental stewardship. Additionally, students will enhance their literacy skills by writing arguments supported by evidence, citing textual information, and analyzing various media formats to develop a comprehensive understanding of climate-related issues.
Standards
- MS-ESS2-5 - Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses results in changes in weather conditions.
- MS-ESS2-6 - Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth cause patterns of atmospheric and oceanic circulation that determine regional climates.
- MS-ESS3-5 - Ask questions to clarify evidence of the factors that have caused the rise in global temperatures over the past century.
- MS-PS1-1 - Develop models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and extended structures.
- MS-PS1-2 - Analyze and interpret data on the properties of substances before and after the substances interact to determine if a chemical reaction has occurred.
- 5-PS1-1 - Develop a model to describe that matter is made of particles too small to be seen.
- 5-PS1-4 - Conduct an investigation to determine whether the mixing of two or more substances results in new substances.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.6.4 - Determine or clarify the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words and phrases based on grade 6 reading and content, choosing flexibly from a range of strategies.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.6.5 - Demonstrate understanding of figurative language, word relationships, and nuances in word meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.1 - Cite textual evidence to support analysis of what the text says explicitly as well as inferences drawn from the text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.2 - Determine a central idea of a text and how it is conveyed through particular details; provide a summary of the text distinct from personal opinions or judgments.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.4 - Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative, connotative, and technical meanings.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.5 - Analyze how a particular sentence, paragraph, chapter, or section fits into the overall structure of a text and contributes to the development of the ideas.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.6 - Determine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and explain how it is conveyed in the text.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.7 - Integrate information presented in different media or formats (e.g., visually, quantitatively) as well as in words to develop a coherent understanding of a topic or issue.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.6.8 - Trace and evaluate the argument and specific claims in a text, distinguishing claims that are supported by reasons and evidence from claims that are not.
- CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.6.1 - Write arguments to support claims with clear reasons and relevant evidence.
Products
Students will create an interactive climate change awareness campaign that includes a detailed brochure, a dynamic presentation, and a comprehensive analysis of community survey data. They will write persuasive essays to support their campaign strategies, using textual evidence and data to substantiate their claims. Additionally, students will develop and present models demonstrating the atomic composition of molecules and the effects of air mass interactions on weather. Throughout the project, students will produce visual and digital content for their campaign, culminating in an engaging exhibition at the 'Climate Champions Fair.'
Launch
Begin the project with a 'Climate Change Quest' scavenger hunt, where students work in teams to solve climate-related puzzles and challenges around the school. Each station will reveal a piece of the climate change puzzle, encouraging critical thinking and collaboration. Integrate reading and writing tasks at each station, such as analyzing short texts on climate topics and writing brief reflections or summaries. Conclude with a group discussion where students share discoveries and insights, setting the stage for their climate change awareness campaigns.
Exhibition
The 'Climate Champions Fair' will serve as an engaging platform for students to present their climate change awareness campaigns. Each student group will set up interactive booths featuring digital presentations, brochures, and survey findings, allowing them to showcase their understanding and solutions to climate-related issues. Students will also prepare written summaries and analyses of their projects, which will be displayed alongside their exhibits. Community members, local meteorologists, environmental activists, and government officials will be invited to interact with the students' work, providing valuable feedback and fostering a dialogue on climate action.
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Project Launch: Climate Change Quest - Begin the project with a scavenger hunt, where students solve climate-related puzzles and challenges around the school to reveal pieces of the climate change puzzle, culminating in a group discussion about discoveries (60 min)
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Introduction to Weather Patterns - Explore the basic principles of weather patterns through video clips and interactive discussions, focusing on air mass interactions and atmospheric conditions (30 min)
Reading and Reflection - Read a short text on climate science and write a brief summary capturing the main ideas and personal reflections (30 min)
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Modeling Atmospheric Circulation - Develop and use a model to describe how unequal heating and rotation of the Earth affect atmospheric circulation, using physical models and simulations (40 min)
Peer Sharing - Share and discuss models with peers to gain insights and feedback (20 min)
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Exploring Matter and Particles - Conduct an investigation demonstrating that matter is made of particles too small to see, using simple experiments such as balloon inflation and fog creation (30 min)
Writing Connections - Write a reflection on the experiments, describing observations and linking them to theoretical concepts (30 min)
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Data Collection on Weather Changes - Collect and analyze data related to air masses and weather changes, using tools like weather apps or online resources (40 min)
Group Discussion - Engage in a discussion about data findings, making connections to climate change impacts and global temperature rise (20 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Written reflections and summaries from scavenger hunt findings.
2. Visual and written models of atomic compositions. 3. Weekly reflection notes. |
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| Preparation |
1. Prepare scavenger hunt stations with climate-related puzzles and challenges.
2. Gather scientific texts on climate change for analysis activities. 3. Set up interactive simulations for atmospheric interactions. 4. Collect materials for model development (e.g., molecular modeling kits). 5. Organize the classroom space for group reflection activities. |
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| Week 2 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Weather Pattern Analysis - Students will collect and analyze data on local weather patterns using real-time data from a meteorological institute, focusing on air mass interactions and atmospheric conditions (30 min)
Data Presentation Preparation - Groups prepare presentations to share findings on weather patterns, emphasizing clarity and effective communication (30 min)
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Model Development: Atmospheric Circulation - Develop models describing how unequal heating and Earth's rotation cause atmospheric circulation patterns, using hands-on materials and digital simulations (30 min)
Group Reflection Circle - Reflect on the challenges encountered while developing models and share insights with peers (30 min)
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Chemical Reaction Investigation - Conduct experiments mixing substances to observe and analyze chemical reactions, noting changes in properties (30 min)
Writing Scientific Observations - Document experimental findings, ensuring detailed descriptions and accurate use of scientific terminology (30 min)
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Community Survey Data Analysis - Analyze survey data collected on climate change awareness, identifying key trends and insights (30 min)
Brochure Design Workshop - Begin designing a climate change awareness brochure using survey data and scientific findings (30 min)
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Peer Review Session - Exchange campaign materials with classmates to receive feedback on clarity, impact, and presentation (30 min)
Revision and Improvement - Revise campaign materials based on peer feedback, focusing on enhancing clarity and effectiveness (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Weather data analysis report: Students will compile and submit a report detailing the weather data collected, identifying patterns and explaining the interactions of air masses.
2. Atmospheric and oceanic circulation models: Students will present their physical and digital models, highlighting key concepts and their implications for regional climates. 3. Argumentative essay on climate change: Students will submit a well-researched essay proposing solutions to minimize human impact on climate change. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather weather instruments like thermometers, hygrometers, and anemometers for data collection.
2. Provide materials for model construction, such as balloons, water tanks, and simulation software access. 3. Curate a selection of scientific articles and documentaries on climate change for student research. 4. Set up peer review guidelines and rubrics for evaluating argumentative essays. |
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| Week 3 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Air Mass Interaction Experiment - Conduct an experiment to simulate the interactions of different air masses and observe resulting weather changes, focusing on data collection (30 min)
Scientific Observation Journal - Write detailed observations and reflections on the air mass experiment, linking findings to atmospheric principles (30 min)
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Weather Data Analysis Workshop - Analyze collected weather data to identify patterns and correlations with air mass interactions, using graphical representations (30 min)
Climate Impact Discussion - Engage in a discussion on how observed weather patterns relate to climate change and human impacts, integrating textual evidence (30 min)
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Model Building: Oceanic Circulation - Develop physical models to demonstrate how Earth's rotation and heating affect oceanic circulation and regional climates (30 min)
Peer Model Review - Share and critique each other's models, providing constructive feedback on accuracy and clarity (30 min)
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Chemical Reaction Exploration - Conduct a guided investigation on chemical reactions, identifying signs of new substance formation and relating to atmospheric conditions (30 min)
Scientific Report Writing - Document findings from the chemical reaction investigation in a structured report, using appropriate scientific language (30 min)
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Brochure Finalization - Refine and complete the climate change awareness brochure, incorporating peer feedback and survey data (30 min)
Exhibition Preparation - Prepare materials and presentations for the upcoming 'Climate Champions Fair,' ensuring engaging and informative content (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. A collection of real-time weather data and analysis report.
2. Interactive digital models illustrating Earth's atmospheric and oceanic circulation patterns. 3. Draft climate change awareness campaign brochures with peer feedback notes. 4. Group analysis report on scientific texts related to climate change factors. 5. Reflective journal entry summarizing week's learning experiences. |
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| Preparation |
1. Coordinate with the local meteorological institute to access real-time weather data and provide necessary tools for data collection.
2. Prepare digital tools and software for students to create interactive models of atmospheric and oceanic circulation. 3. Organize peer review session guidelines and feedback forms to facilitate constructive critique of campaign brochures. 4. Select and prepare scientific texts related to climate change factors for collaborative reading sessions. 5. Set up a digital platform for students to submit and share their reflective journal entries. |
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| Week 4 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Critical Reading on Climate Change - Analyze an article about climate change impacts, focusing on identifying key ideas and evidence to support claims (30 min)
Drafting Brochure Content - Begin drafting sections of the climate change awareness brochure, integrating scientific concepts and community survey findings (30 min)
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Model Presentation Preparation - Prepare presentations on models developed for atmospheric and oceanic circulation, emphasizing the connection to regional climates (30 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Present models to peers and receive constructive feedback, focusing on clarity and scientific accuracy (30 min)
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Chemical Reaction Analysis - Conduct experiments to analyze chemical reactions involved in atmospheric changes and their environmental impacts (30 min)
Reflection Journal Entry - Write a journal entry reflecting on the chemical reaction experiments, linking observations to broader climate change concepts (30 min)
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Campaign Strategy Workshop - Develop strategies for the climate change awareness campaign, incorporating scientific data and persuasive techniques (30 min)
Writing Persuasive Essays - Begin drafting persuasive essays to support campaign strategies with clear reasons and relevant evidence (30 min)
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Mock Exhibition Practice - Organize mock exhibitions to present climate change campaigns to peers, simulating the 'Climate Champions Fair' and receiving targeted feedback (30 min)
Final Revisions and Improvements - Revise campaign materials and presentations based on peer feedback, ensuring clarity and impact (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Developed and presented models of atmospheric interactions
2. Graphical representation of analyzed weather data 3. Draft of community survey questions 4. Revised climate change awareness campaign materials |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for model building (balloons, colored water, fans)
2. Coordinate with the local meteorological institute for access to real-time weather data 3. Provide guidelines and templates for survey design 4. Prepare peer review checklists and reflection prompts |
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| Week 5 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Interactive Climate Data Analysis - Work with real-time weather data from a local meteorological institute to identify patterns and discuss findings in small groups (30 min)
Reflection Writing - Write a journal entry summarizing observations from the data analysis and connecting it to climate change concepts (30 min)
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Developing Climate Infographics - Create visual infographics that illustrate key climate change data and its impact, using digital tools or art supplies (40 min)
Peer Review Session - Exchange infographics with classmates for feedback on clarity and visual impact (20 min)
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Drafting Persuasive Campaign Scripts - Begin writing scripts for the climate change awareness campaign presentation, focusing on persuasive techniques (40 min)
Peer Feedback Workshop - Share draft scripts with peers to receive feedback on effectiveness and clarity (20 min)
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Mock Presentation Practice - Practice delivering campaign presentations in small groups, focusing on clarity, engagement, and persuasive impact (30 min)
Revision and Improvement - Revise presentation scripts and materials based on peer feedback and practice observations (30 min)
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Final Presentation and Brochure Review - Conduct a final review of campaign presentations and brochures, ensuring alignment with scientific data and persuasive strategies (30 min)
Exhibition Setup Planning - Plan the layout and materials needed for the upcoming 'Climate Champions Fair,' ensuring all campaign elements are ready for display (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed science journal with observations and conclusions from the mixing substances investigation.
2. Molecular models depicting the atomic composition of simple molecules, along with a brief written explanation of each model. 3. Data analysis report illustrating the interpretation of weather patterns and the effects of air masses, supported by real-time weather data. 4. Peer review feedback forms completed by students, providing insights and suggestions for improving each other's climate change awareness campaign materials. 5. Reflection summary from the mock exhibition, detailing the feedback received and plans for revising campaign strategies. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for the mixing substances investigation, including common household liquids and solids, safety equipment, and science journals.
2. Provide molecular model kits or access to digital modeling tools for students to create atomic compositions. 3. Coordinate with the local meteorological institute to obtain access to real-time weather data and data visualization tools. 4. Prepare targeted feedback forms for the peer review session, focusing on clarity, impact, and presentation of campaign materials. 5. Organize space and resources for the mock exhibition, including presentation equipment and feedback forms. |
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| Week 6 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Reflection on Climate Change Quest - Write a reflective journal entry discussing insights gained from the scavenger hunt and how these connect to broader climate change concepts (30 min)
Weather Data Analysis Collaboration - Collaborate in small groups to analyze real-time weather data and discuss findings, focusing on air mass interactions (30 min)
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Drafting Climate Awareness Campaign - Begin drafting content for the climate change awareness campaign presentation, integrating scientific concepts and community survey data (40 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Share draft content with peers and receive constructive feedback on clarity and effectiveness (20 min)
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Developing Interactive Models - Use digital tools to create interactive models demonstrating atmospheric and oceanic circulation patterns and their impact on climate (40 min)
Model Presentation Workshop - Present models to peers for critique and refinement, focusing on accuracy and engagement (20 min)
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Persuasive Writing Workshop - Write persuasive essays supporting campaign strategies, using scientific evidence and persuasive techniques (40 min)
Peer Review and Revision - Exchange essays with classmates for feedback and revise based on suggestions (20 min)
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Mock Exhibition Setup - Organize mock exhibitions to practice presenting climate change campaigns, simulating the 'Climate Champions Fair' and receiving targeted feedback (30 min)
Final Campaign Revision - Revise campaign materials and presentations based on peer feedback, ensuring clarity and impact (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Revised climate change awareness campaign brochure
2. Finalized presentation script highlighting key findings and strategies 3. Reflective summary on project learnings and proposed solutions |
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| Preparation |
1. Prepare peer review guidelines and feedback forms for students
2. Set up digital presentation tools and media resources for integration 3. Organize small group sessions for presentation practice and feedback 4. Provide access to printers for brochure finalization |
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| Week 7 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Model Presentation Review - Conduct a peer review session where students present models of atmospheric circulation and receive feedback on scientific accuracy and presentation skills (30 min)
Climate Change Brochure Enhancement - Refine climate change awareness brochures by integrating peer feedback and recent data findings to enhance clarity and impact (30 min)
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Interactive Data Analysis - Analyze community survey data using digital tools to identify trends and insights, focusing on climate change awareness (30 min)
Drafting Scientific Arguments - Begin writing persuasive essays using data and textual evidence to support claims about climate change impacts and solutions (30 min)
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Mock Exhibition Setup - Organize mock exhibitions to simulate the 'Climate Champions Fair,' allowing students to present their campaigns and receive feedback on engagement strategies (30 min)
Writing Reflection - Write a reflection on the feedback received during the mock exhibition, identifying areas for improvement in campaign presentation (30 min)
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Final Campaign Presentation Practice - Practice delivering final campaign presentations, focusing on persuasive techniques and audience engagement (30 min)
Brochure and Presentation Finalization - Make last revisions to brochures and presentations, ensuring alignment with scientific data and persuasive strategies (30 min)
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Exhibition Setup and Rehearsal - Plan and rehearse the setup for the 'Climate Champions Fair,' ensuring all campaign materials are organized and ready for display (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Participate in a reflection circle to share thoughts and feelings about the project journey and upcoming exhibition, fostering peer feedback and emotional development (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Revised climate change awareness campaign materials (brochure and presentation) incorporating peer feedback.
2. Completed analysis of community survey data on climate change awareness, along with integrated findings into campaign materials. |
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| Preparation |
1. Arrange for collaboration with local environmental activists and meteorological institute for workshops and data analysis sessions.
2. Prepare feedback forms and guidelines for peer review sessions. 3. Organize materials and resources for mock exhibitions, including presentation setups and feedback stations. 4. Distribute survey templates and instructions for community data collection activity. 5. Provide access to real-time weather data through meteorological institute partnership. |
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| Week 8 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Final Campaign Presentation - Deliver climate change awareness presentations to peers and teachers, practicing engagement and clarity (30 min)
Feedback and Reflection Session - Engage in a reflection session to discuss presentation strengths and areas for improvement (30 min)
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Writing Persuasive Essays - Finalize persuasive essays supporting campaign strategies, using targeted feedback to enhance clarity and evidence (40 min)
Peer Review Exchange - Exchange essays with classmates for feedback on writing quality and persuasive impact (20 min)
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Exhibition Setup and Rehearsal - Arrange materials for the 'Climate Champions Fair' and rehearse presentation delivery, focusing on audience engagement (40 min)
Final Touches on Brochure and Presentation - Make final edits to brochures and presentations based on peer feedback and rehearsal observations (20 min)
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Interactive Booth Preparation - Set up interactive booths with digital presentations, brochures, and visuals for the fair, ensuring all elements are ready for display (30 min)
Reflection Circle - Participate in a reflection circle to share thoughts on project achievements and personal growth throughout the process (30 min)
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Climate Champions Fair Exhibition - Host the exhibition showcasing climate change campaigns to community members and invited guests, facilitating discussions and interactions (60 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Interactive booths with digital presentations, brochures, and survey findings
2. Persuasive essays supporting campaign strategies |
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| Preparation |
1. Arrange the venue for the Climate Champions Fair and invite community partners and stakeholders
2. Prepare feedback forms for peer review sessions 3. Provide materials for creating and printing brochures and other visual content 4. Ensure access to digital devices for presentations 5. Set up a schedule and plan for mock exhibitions and peer review sessions |
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Remixed from
Weather Wonders: Air Mass Magic!