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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Activities
Project Introduction and Hero's Toast Launch - Host an engaging 'Hero's Toast' event to introduce the project, providing an overview of the tasks ahead and sharing the story of the Norfolk 17, inspiring students to reflect on heroism and its significance. (30 min)
Sensory Exploration Activity - Partner with a local café or beverage company to facilitate a hands-on sensory exploration of various drinks, prompting students to take notes and discuss the characteristics they experience, laying the foundation for simile creation. (40 min)
Introduction to Similes and Figurative Language - Conduct an interactive workshop exploring similes and other figurative language, using examples from 'Lions of Little Rock' to illustrate how these elements enhance storytelling. (35 min)
Creating Similes - Guide students in crafting similes that compare the traits of their chosen hero to the sensory elements of a drink, emphasizing sensory details and descriptive language. (35 min)
Reading Circles: Lions of Little Rock - Organize small-group reading circles where students read and discuss selected excerpts from 'Lions of Little Rock,' focusing on themes of heroism and character challenges. (40 min)
Hero Selection and Initial Research - Encourage students to select a hero they admire and conduct preliminary research to gather information about their hero's life, achievements, and challenges. (30 min)
Drafting Hero Narrative - Provide a structured writing session for students to begin drafting a narrative that introduces their hero, incorporating factual evidence and setting the stage for simile comparisons. (40 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Facilitate a peer review session where students share their draft narratives and provide constructive feedback to each other, focusing on clarity, organization, and the use of figurative language. (30 min)
Deliverables
1. A list of qualities that define a hero, created collaboratively in class.
2. A personal reflection piece where students describe their chosen hero and the reasons behind their choice.
Preparation 1. Secure copies of 'Lions of Little Rock' for each student and prepare discussion questions for the reading circle.
2. Gather materials for teaching figurative language, including examples of similes and sensory detail prompts.
3. Coordinate with a local beverage company or café to provide samples of drinks for the simile activity.
4. Prepare a research guide to help students gather information about their chosen hero, including recommended resources and reference materials.
5. Set up the classroom for the 'Hero Reflection Circle' with seating arranged for open discussion.
Week 2
Day 5
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Activities
Hero Traits Exploration - Students analyze character traits of heroes in 'Lions of Little Rock', discussing how these traits can be applied to real-life heroes (20 min)
Sensory Elements Workshop - Partner with a local café to explore sensory elements of different drinks, noting flavors, textures, and aromas to inform simile creation (50 min)
Figurative Language Deep Dive - Students explore similes, metaphors, and personification in 'Lions of Little Rock', identifying examples and discussing their impact on storytelling (30 min)
Simile Creation Exercise - Students begin crafting similes that compare their chosen hero to a drink, using sensory elements and figurative language for vivid descriptions (40 min)
Hero Narrative Drafting - Students draft a multi-paragraph narrative introducing their hero and the simile comparison, focusing on clarity and organized structure (40 min)
Peer Review Session - Students exchange drafts and provide feedback on content clarity, word choice, and sentence variety, emphasizing the use of transitions (30 min)
Simile Revision Workshop - Students revise their similes based on peer feedback, enhancing descriptive language and sensory details (30 min)
Video Storyboarding - Students start storyboarding their video presentation, planning visual elements and spoken language to articulate their hero's story (40 min)
Deliverables
1. A list of three drafted similes comparing a chosen hero to a drink, incorporating sensory details from the beverage exploration.
2. An outline for a narrative essay that integrates the similes and discusses the hero's journey, including evidence from the novel.
Preparation 1. Gather a variety of beverages for the sensory exploration activity, ensuring options for various dietary needs and preferences.
2. Prepare sensory description worksheets for students to record their observations during the beverage tasting.
3. Collect examples of similes from 'Lions of Little Rock' and create a reference handout for students.
4. Develop peer-review guidelines to facilitate constructive feedback sessions.
5. Create narrative outline templates to help students organize their ideas effectively.
Week 3
Day 9
Day 10
Day 11
Day 12
Activities
Hero Analysis and Discussion - Students engage in a group discussion to analyze the characteristics and challenges of their chosen heroes, drawing parallels to characters in 'Lions of Little Rock' and discussing how these traits can be represented creatively (35 min)
Simile Crafting Workshop - Guide students to refine their similes by incorporating sensory details and figurative language, emphasizing vivid imagery that connects their hero to a chosen drink (35 min)
Narrative Development Session - Students continue drafting a narrative that introduces their hero and uses similes to compare traits to a drink, ensuring clear organization and engaging storytelling (40 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Facilitate a session where students share their narratives and provide peer feedback focusing on clarity and the effectiveness of figurative language (30 min)
Video Presentation Planning - Students begin planning the structure of their video presentation, outlining how they will use visuals and spoken language to convey their hero's story and simile comparison (35 min)
Script Drafting and Refinement - Students draft scripts for their video presentations, focusing on integrating narrative elements and descriptive language for impact (35 min)
Storyboard Finalization - Guide students to finalize their video storyboards, ensuring that visual elements align with their script and effectively communicate their hero's narrative (40 min)
Media Literacy Skills Enhancement - Conduct a workshop on selecting and organizing multimedia content, helping students understand how different media modes can enhance storytelling (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Drafted similes comparing heroes to drinks, inspired by sensory exploration.
2. Written narrative draft incorporating similes and thematic connections to 'Lions of Little Rock'.
Preparation 1. Coordinate with a local beverage company or café to arrange a sensory exploration session.
2. Gather resources and materials related to figurative language, including samples of similes and literary excerpts.
3. Prepare a rubric for peer-review focusing on clarity, word choice, sentence variety, and simile effectiveness.
4. Ensure access to digital devices for drafting and peer feedback sessions.
5. Arrange seating and materials for reading circles and workshops.
Week 4
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Day 16
Activities
Hero Insight Session - Facilitate a discussion where students delve into their chosen hero's life, analyzing traits and challenges to deepen understanding and draw parallels with 'Lions of Little Rock' characters (30 min)
Simile Enhancement Workshop - Guide students in refining their similes by incorporating feedback and enhancing sensory details to create vivid comparisons between their hero and drink (40 min)
Narrative Refinement and Expansion - Provide a writing session where students revise and expand their hero narratives, focusing on clarity, word choice, and the integration of similes (40 min)
Peer Critique and Revision - Organize a peer review session where students exchange feedback on narrative drafts, emphasizing sentence variety and transition improvements (30 min)
Video Script Finalization - Assist students in finalizing scripts for their video presentations, ensuring narrative coherence and effective use of figurative language to convey their hero's story (35 min)
Visual Element Planning - Conduct a workshop to help students plan visual elements for their videos, selecting images and multimedia content that enhance storytelling (35 min)
Video Production Workshop - Guide students as they begin creating their video presentations, integrating spoken language and visual components to articulate their hero's narrative and simile comparison (40 min)
Media Literacy Reflection - Facilitate a session on media literacy skills, encouraging students to reflect on the role of different communication modes in enhancing their video presentations (30 min)
Deliverables
1. By the end of the week, students will have a completed draft of their script for the video presentation, incorporating similes, textual evidence, and narrative elements.
Preparation 1. Gather a selection of texts and excerpts from 'Lions of Little Rock' that highlight heroism and character challenges.
2. Prepare materials for the brainstorming session, including graphic organizers and sensory detail worksheets.
3. Set up a digital platform or shared folder for students to upload and share their script drafts for peer review.
4. Coordinate with a local café or beverage company to provide sample drinks that students can experience and use as inspiration for their simile comparisons.
Week 5
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Video Production Session - Continue creating video presentations, focusing on integrating spoken language and visual elements to effectively convey the hero's narrative and simile comparison (40 min)
Editing Workshop - Introduce basic video editing techniques, guiding students to refine their video clips and transitions for a polished presentation (30 min)
Peer Review and Feedback - Facilitate a session where students share their video drafts with peers, providing constructive feedback on content clarity and media integration (35 min)
Simile Enhancement and Finalization - Guide students in refining their similes based on peer feedback, ensuring vivid and sensory-rich language (35 min)
Narrative and Script Revision - Assist students in revising scripts based on peer and teacher feedback, focusing on narrative coherence and the effective use of figurative language (40 min)
Visual and Audio Enhancement - Conduct a workshop on selecting and enhancing audio elements, such as background music and voiceovers, to support storytelling (30 min)
Final Video Production - Provide students with time to incorporate final revisions and enhancements, ensuring their videos are ready for presentation (40 min)
Reflection and Sharing - Organize a 'Hero Reflection Circle' where students discuss their process, challenges faced, and insights gained, drawing connections to 'Lions of Little Rock' (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed draft of the narrative comparing the hero to a drink using similes.
2. Peer-reviewed narrative with feedback integrated for improvement.
3. Initial storyboard for the video presentation outlining the visual and spoken elements.
Preparation 1. Gather materials on multimedia editing tools and techniques to support students in organizing their video presentations.
2. Prepare peer review guidelines and checklists to facilitate effective feedback sessions.
3. Collect additional reading materials and resources related to heroism and the themes in 'Lions of Little Rock'.
4. Coordinate with local beverage company or café to provide sensory exploration materials for students to understand drink elements.
Week 6
Day 21
Day 22
Day 23
Day 24
Activities
Video Editing Workshop - Teach students how to use video editing software to enhance their presentations, incorporating music, transitions, and text overlays to highlight key points in their hero narratives (35 min)
Peer Review and Feedback Session - Facilitate a peer review session where students present their edited videos and receive constructive feedback focusing on clarity, narrative coherence, and the effective use of multimodal elements (35 min)
Simile Enhancement and Practice - Guide students in refining their simile comparisons within their videos, encouraging them to practice and rehearse the spoken elements for clarity and impact (40 min)
Visual and Auditory Elements Workshop - Provide an interactive session on selecting appropriate visual and auditory elements that complement their hero stories, enhancing the overall narrative through sensory engagement (30 min)
Final Narrative Revisions - Offer dedicated time for students to make final revisions to their narrative scripts, ensuring they effectively integrate similes and descriptive language to convey their hero's journey (35 min)
Multimodal Presentation Planning - Assist students in planning the structure of their final video presentations, focusing on the integration of visual, spoken, and written elements to create a cohesive narrative (35 min)
Video Presentation Rehearsal - Allow students to rehearse their complete video presentations, focusing on timing, delivery, and the effective use of multimedia elements to engage the audience (40 min)
Final Feedback and Reflection - Conduct a reflective session where students share their experiences and insights gained from the project, discussing how their understanding of heroism and storytelling has evolved (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Finalized script for the video presentation, incorporating feedback from peer editing sessions.
2. Storyboard for the video presentation, detailing visual elements, spoken word, and simile comparisons.
3. Participation in the 'Hero Reflection Circle' and completion of a reflection journal entry summarizing insights gained.
Preparation 1. Arrange the logistics for the local beverage expert's workshop, ensuring the availability of various drinks for sensory exploration.
2. Prepare a checklist for peer editing sessions to guide students in providing constructive feedback on script drafts.
3. Set up a space for the 'Hero Reflection Circle' that encourages open discussion and reflection.
4. Gather materials for storyboarding, such as storyboard templates, art supplies, and digital tools.
Week 7
Day 25
Day 26
Day 27
Day 28
Activities
Final Video Edits - Students apply final edits to their video presentations, ensuring all multimedia elements are cohesive and highlight their hero narratives effectively (40 min)
Simile Presentation Practice - Students rehearse their simile comparisons, focusing on clarity and engaging delivery, and receive peer feedback to refine their presentation skills (30 min)
Hero Reflection Circle Preparation - Students prepare notes and insights for the 'Hero Reflection Circle,' considering how their heroes compare to characters in 'Lions of Little Rock' (30 min)
Final Presentation Rehearsal - Students conduct a full rehearsal of their video presentations, practicing timing, delivery, and multimedia integration for audience engagement (40 min)
Hero Reflection Circle - Students engage in a 'Hero Reflection Circle,' sharing their chosen heroes' stories and the challenges they faced, drawing parallels to 'Lions of Little Rock' (40 min)
Peer Feedback Session - Students exchange constructive feedback on their rehearsals, focusing on clarity, narrative coherence, and the impact of multimedia elements (30 min)
Presentation Refinement - Students refine their presentations based on peer feedback, ensuring their video and spoken elements are polished and cohesive (35 min)
Multimodal Content Review - Conduct a final review of multimodal content, ensuring all elements effectively enhance the storytelling and hero comparison (35 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed storyboard of their video presentation.
2. Draft script for the video, including hero simile and narrative elements.
3. Practice video recording with peer feedback notes.
4. Edited video draft incorporating feedback and enhancements.
Preparation 1. Provide access to video editing software and equipment (cameras, microphones, tripods).
2. Prepare storyboard templates and scriptwriting guides.
3. Set up a classroom space conducive to video recording, with adequate lighting and soundproofing.
4. Organize peer feedback groups and provide guidelines for constructive critique.
5. Ensure access to digital resources for editing tutorials and practice.
Week 8
Day 29
Day 30
Day 31
Day 32
Activities
Final Video Review - Students conduct a thorough review of their video presentations, ensuring all multimedia elements effectively communicate their hero's narrative and simile comparison (35 min)
Peer Feedback Exchange - Facilitate a session where students share their reviewed presentations with peers, providing and receiving constructive feedback focusing on clarity, narrative coherence, and multimedia integration (35 min)
Incorporate Feedback - Students refine their video presentations based on peer feedback, making necessary adjustments to enhance storytelling and visual impact (40 min)
Simile Rehearsal - Students practice their simile comparisons, focusing on clear and engaging delivery, and receive additional peer feedback to refine their presentation skills (30 min)
Presentation Preparation - Students conduct a final rehearsal of their complete video presentations, focusing on timing, delivery, and the use of multimedia to engage the audience (35 min)
Hero Reflection Circle Preparation - Students prepare notes and insights for the upcoming 'Hero Reflection Circle,' considering how their heroes compare to characters in 'Lions of Little Rock' (35 min)
Hero Reflection Circle - Students participate in a 'Hero Reflection Circle,' sharing their hero's story and challenges, drawing parallels to 'Lions of Little Rock' and reflecting on their learning journey (40 min)
Final Presentation Refinement - Students make final refinements to their presentations based on peer feedback from the reflection circle, ensuring a polished and cohesive final product (30 min)
Deliverables
1. Revised video draft incorporating peer and expert feedback.
2. Reflection journal entry discussing the feedback received and the changes made to the video project.
Preparation 1. Arrange for video editing software and equipment for the workshop.
2. Coordinate with a local beverage company or café to schedule the feedback session.
3. Prepare feedback forms and guidelines for peer review to ensure structured and constructive criticism.
4. Set up a comfortable and open space for the reflection and discussion circle.
Week 9
Day 33
Day 34
Day 35
Day 36
Activities
Exhibition Setup - Collaborate with classmates to prepare the venue for the Hero Simile Party, organizing interactive stations and arranging multimedia displays (35 min)
Final Presentation Review - Engage in a peer review session to finalize video presentations, ensuring clarity and impactful delivery (35 min)
Exhibition Rehearsal - Conduct a full rehearsal of the Hero Simile Party, practicing presentations and interactive activities for a seamless experience (40 min)
Simile Reflection and Enhancement - Reflect on the effectiveness of simile comparisons and make final enhancements to ensure vivid language and sensory engagement (30 min)
Final Touches and Setup - Complete last-minute preparations for the exhibition, ensuring all materials and stations are organized and ready (30 min)
Hero Reflection Circle - Participate in a reflective circle where students share insights gained from the project and discuss their understanding of heroism (40 min)
Hero Simile Party Exhibition - Host the Hero Simile Party, presenting video projects, engaging with community partners, and celebrating the heroes with creative simile comparisons (70 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed multimedia video presentation comparing a hero to a drink using similes.
2. Revised and polished written narrative that complements the video, detailing the hero's journey and connections to 'Lions of Little Rock.'
3. Participation in the Hero Reflection Circle, demonstrating understanding and personal connection to heroism themes.
Preparation 1. Ensure access to video editing software and equipment for final refinements.
2. Prepare a rubric for peer review, focusing on clarity, creativity, and simile effectiveness.
3. Organize the Hero Simile Party, including invitations to families and community members, setup of exhibition space, and coordination with the local café or beverage company for drinks.
4. Arrange seating and materials for the Hero Reflection Circle to facilitate a thoughtful and engaging discussion.