All grades
Project
8 weeks
"Suitcase Chronicles: Stories of Journey & Identity"
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Purpose
The purpose of the "Suitcase Stories" project is to engage students in understanding migration's impact on identity and community through storytelling and hands-on exhibit creation. By curating a symbolic suitcase filled with artifacts and narratives, students explore historical and personal migration journeys, fostering empathy and critical thinking. This project encourages students to connect with their own identities and those of others, while developing research, writing, and presentation skills in a real-world context.
Learning goals
Students will explore migration stories to understand the complex reasons behind migration and its impact on identity and community. They will develop narrative writing skills by crafting engaging stories that incorporate artifacts and historical context. Through presentations and museum exhibits, students will enhance their speaking abilities and empathy by sharing diverse migration experiences. Collaborative research and artifact creation will foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills, enabling students to connect historical events with personal and community narratives.
Standards
- [National Council for the Social Studies] D4.3.9-12 - Present adaptations of arguments and explanations that feature evocative ideas and perspectives on issues and topics to reach a range of audiences and venues outside the classroom using print and oral technologies (e.g., posters, essays, letters, debates, speeches, reports, and maps) and digital technologies (e.g., Internet, social media, and digital documentary).
- [National Council for the Social Studies] D4.3.3-5 - Present a summary of arguments and explanations to others outside the classroom using print and oral technologies (e.g., posters, essays, letters, debates, speeches, and reports) and digital technologies (e.g., Internet, social media, and digital documentary).
- [National Council for the Social Studies] D4.3.6-8 - Present adaptations of arguments and explanations on topics of interest to others to reach audiences and venues outside the classroom using print and oral technologies (e.g., posters, essays, letters, debates, speeches, reports, and maps) and digital technologies (e.g., Internet, social media, and digital documentary).
Competencies
- Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
- Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
- Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
Products
Students will create a symbolic suitcase exhibit containing artifacts that represent migration stories, including maps, timelines, letters, and drawings. They will write a first-person narrative essay that captures the essence of the migration journey and its impact on identity. Additionally, students will design an invitational flyer for the Migration Museum Day, showcasing their work and inviting community members to engage with the exhibits. Finally, students will collaborate to produce a shared timeline that visually represents various migration stories, highlighting key events and connections.
Launch
Organize a 'Suitcase Surprise' activity where students receive a suitcase filled with mysterious artifacts related to migration stories. They will work in groups to investigate and hypothesize the origins and journey of the suitcase's contents, sparking curiosity and engagement with the project's themes. This interactive exploration will set the stage for deeper inquiry into migration stories and their impact on identity.
Exhibition
Host a dynamic "Migration Museum Day" where students showcase their suitcase exhibits and narratives to family members, school staff, and local community leaders. Encourage interactive discussions and questions, allowing visitors to engage deeply with each migration story. Create stations for students to present their work, fostering a collaborative atmosphere where they can share insights and learn from feedback. Incorporate multimedia elements like audio recordings or digital presentations to enhance storytelling and provide a richer experience for attendees.
Plan
| Week 1 | Day 1 | Day 2 | Day 3 | Day 4 | Day 5 |
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| Activities |
Project Introduction and Driving Question Exploration - Introduce the 'Suitcase Stories' project and discuss the driving question: 'How can we share migration stories to help others understand why people move and how it shapes identity?' (20 min)
Suitcase Surprise Activity - Unveil suitcases filled with mysterious artifacts related to migration stories; students work in groups to explore and hypothesize the origins and journey of the suitcase's contents, sparking curiosity and engagement with the project's themes (40 min)
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Exploring Migration Stories - Facilitate a discussion on migration, its causes, and effects by sharing examples of personal, historical, and fictional migration stories; emphasize empathy and identity exploration (30 min)
Artifact Analysis - Students examine artifacts from the 'Suitcase Surprise' to identify connections between artifacts and migration stories, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills (30 min)
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Research Workshop - Guide students in finding resources for their selected migration stories, including books and online articles; introduce research skills and how to gather relevant information (30 min)
Story Selection and Discussion - Students choose a migration story to focus on for their project, discussing their choices in small groups and receiving peer feedback on potential narrative directions (30 min)
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Narrative Writing Introduction - Introduce narrative writing techniques with emphasis on engaging storytelling, vivid descriptions, and clear organization; students brainstorm ideas for their first-person narratives (30 min)
Artifact Planning Session - Students plan the types of artifacts they will create or include in their suitcase exhibit, considering how each piece represents the migration journey (30 min)
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Collaborative Timeline Creation - Students work in groups to create a shared timeline that visually represents various migration stories, connecting historical and personal events (30 min)
Reflection Wall Setup - Create a 'Reflection Wall' in the classroom where students can post initial thoughts or drawings about migration's impact on identity, encouraging ongoing reflection (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed Story Selection and Initial Narrative Ideas
2. Research Notes on Migration Patterns and Selected Story 3. Artifact Exploration List |
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| Preparation |
1. Prepare suitcases with artifacts related to migration stories for the 'Suitcase Surprise' activity.
2. Gather resources such as books, articles, and videos on migration for the research workshop. 3. Create a 'Reflection Wall' in the classroom for ongoing student reflection. 4. Organize materials like paper, markers, and drawing supplies for artifact exploration. 5. Develop interview prompts for students to use in gathering migration stories from family/community members. |
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| Week 2 | Day 6 | Day 7 | Day 8 | Day 9 | Day 10 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Artifact Brainstorming - Students brainstorm possible artifacts related to their selected migration story, focusing on items that represent key moments and themes of the journey (20 min)
Narrative Writing Workshop - Begin drafting the first-person narrative with guidance on incorporating descriptive details and emotional perspectives, aligned with narrative writing standards (40 min)
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Peer Sharing Session - Share initial narrative drafts with peers for feedback, focusing on clarity and emotional impact (30 min)
Artifact Selection - Choose at least four artifacts that will be included in the suitcase, ensuring each piece is meaningful and connects to the narrative (30 min)
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Historical Context Research - Conduct research on historical migration patterns and factors, using classroom library resources to deepen understanding (30 min)
Artifact Creation - Begin creating the selected artifacts, such as drawings, letters, or maps, emphasizing creativity and historical accuracy (30 min)
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Narrative Revision - Revise narratives based on peer feedback and historical research, focusing on organization and vivid storytelling (40 min)
Empathy Exploration Discussion - Engage in a class discussion on empathy and identity, drawing connections from personal narratives to broader migration themes (20 min)
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Artifact Finalization - Complete the creation of artifacts, ensuring each item effectively represents the migration journey and personal story (30 min)
Reflection Wall Contribution - Post reflections or drawings about migration's role in shaping identity on the classroom 'Reflection Wall' (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed draft of the narrative essay
2. Detailed artifact plan with descriptions and sketches for each artifact 3. Peer feedback notes on narrative essay and artifact plan |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for artifact creation: art supplies, paper, markers, colored pencils, glue, scissors
2. Compile a list of resources for research: books, articles, and online sources related to migration stories 3. Provide access to digital tools for writing and editing essays 4. Create peer feedback rubric focusing on narrative clarity and artifact representation 5. Set up stations for students to collaborate and brainstorm artifact ideas 6. Organize one-on-one teacher conferences to review student progress and offer guidance |
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| Week 3 | Day 11 | Day 12 | Day 13 | Day 14 | Day 15 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Artifact Creation Session - Students create their first artifact for the suitcase exhibit, focusing on expressing a key moment from the migration story through drawings or letters (30 min)
Narrative Writing Workshop - Students draft the first paragraph of their narrative, focusing on setting the scene and introducing the migration journey using engaging and vivid language (30 min)
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Peer Review and Feedback - Students exchange narrative drafts with peers to receive constructive feedback on clarity and organization, refining their writing based on suggestions (30 min)
Artifact Continuation - Students continue working on additional artifacts, such as maps or photos, ensuring each piece accurately represents elements of the migration journey (30 min)
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Museum Exhibit Planning - Students outline their suitcase exhibit layout, deciding the arrangement and presentation of artifacts to effectively convey their migration story (30 min)
Speaking and Presentation Skills - Practice presenting their migration stories, focusing on clarity, pacing, and using descriptive details to engage the audience (30 min)
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Final Narrative Drafting - Students complete their narrative essays, incorporating feedback and ensuring a well-organized story that connects their artifacts (30 min)
Presentation Rehearsal - Students rehearse their presentations with peers, receiving feedback on delivery and adjusting their approach to enhance engagement (30 min)
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Exhibit Assembly - Students assemble their suitcase exhibits, arranging artifacts and narratives in preparation for 'Migration Museum Day' (30 min)
Reflection and Self-Assessment - Students reflect on their progress and learning journey, noting areas of success and improvement on the 'Reflection Wall' (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed symbolic suitcase exhibit with at least four artifacts.
2. Final draft of the first-person narrative essay, ready for presentation. 3. Practiced and rehearsed presentation of the migration story. 4. A visual element, such as a map or timeline, to accompany the suitcase exhibit. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for creating artifacts, including art supplies, printouts for photos or documents, and tools for assembling the suitcase.
2. Provide access to presentation practice tools, such as a quiet space, mirrors, or recording devices for students to self-assess their speaking skills. 3. Prepare peer feedback forms to guide students in providing constructive and focused feedback during review sessions. 4. Ensure availability of computers or tablets for students to draft and finalize their narrative essays with access to word processing software. 5. Set up a classroom area for the peer feedback session, including seating arrangements and space for displaying suitcase exhibits. |
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| Week 4 | Day 16 | Day 17 | Day 18 | Day 19 | Day 20 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Exhibit Finalization - Students finalize the arrangement and presentation of artifacts and narratives within their suitcase exhibits to ensure clarity and coherence in storytelling (30 min)
Presentation Review - Conduct a final review of presentation skills with peer feedback, focusing on clarity, pacing, and engagement techniques (30 min)
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Dress Rehearsal - Simulate the 'Migration Museum Day' experience, where students present to peers acting as community members, refining their delivery and interaction skills (40 min)
Feedback Reflection - Students review feedback from the dress rehearsal and make necessary adjustments to their presentations and exhibits (20 min)
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Exhibit Enhancement - Allow students time to enhance their suitcase exhibits based on feedback, adding final touches to artifacts and narratives (30 min)
Interactive Presentation Practice - Engage in interactive practice sessions where students answer potential visitor questions, strengthening their ability to explain and support their stories (30 min)
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Final Exhibit Setup - Students set up their exhibits in the designated 'Migration Museum' space, ensuring each suitcase is displayed effectively for public viewing (30 min)
Personal Reflection - Students write a short reflection on their project journey and learning, which will be displayed as part of their exhibit to share personal insights with museum visitors (30 min)
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Migration Museum Day - Host the 'Migration Museum' event where students present and interact with visitors, sharing their migration stories and artifacts, and engaging in discussions (60 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Revised narrative essays incorporating peer feedback
2. Completed symbolic suitcase exhibit set up for presentation 3. Oral presentations prepared for Migration Museum Day 4. Feedback reflections posted on the Reflection Wall |
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| Preparation |
1. Ensure the presentation space is ready for the Migration Museum Day, including setup for exhibits and seating for visitors.
2. Prepare feedback forms for peer review sessions to guide constructive feedback. 3. Set up a schedule for presentation rehearsals, ensuring each group has time to practice. 4. Coordinate with family members and community partners to invite them to Migration Museum Day. 5. Provide materials for last-minute adjustments to exhibits, such as markers, tape, and printing resources. |
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| Week 5 | Day 21 | Day 22 | Day 23 | Day 24 | Day 25 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Workshop: Crafting Engaging Story Introductions - Guide students in refining the introduction of their narratives to captivate readers and set the context for their migration stories (30 min)
Artifact Refinement Session - Students focus on enhancing their existing artifacts, ensuring they accurately and creatively represent the migration journey (30 min)
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Peer Feedback Exchange - Facilitate a session where students share their narrative introductions and artifacts with peers to receive constructive feedback for improvement (30 min)
Artifact and Narrative Correlation - Students work on connecting their artifacts to specific parts of their narratives, ensuring a cohesive storytelling experience (30 min)
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Interactive Presentation Development - Students develop interactive elements for their museum presentation, such as questions or prompts to engage visitors (30 min)
Collaborative Timeline Finalization - Students finalize the shared timeline by adding any missing historical events or personal migration milestones (30 min)
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Presentation Practice with Peer Review - Students rehearse their presentations in small groups, focusing on clarity, pacing, and engagement, with peers providing feedback (30 min)
Reflection and Insight Sharing - Students write a reflection on the insights gained from peer feedback and how they will apply it to enhance their presentations (30 min)
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Exhibit and Presentation Enhancement - Allow time for students to make final adjustments and improvements to their suitcase exhibits and presentations based on peer reviews (30 min)
Reflection Wall Update - Students contribute new reflections or drawings to the 'Reflection Wall' capturing their learning journey and understanding of migration's impact on identity (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Revised narrative draft
2. Completed set of artifacts for the suitcase exhibit 3. Presentation script or outline |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather art supplies (paper, markers, craft materials) for artifact creation
2. Prepare feedback forms for peer review of presentations 3. Set up a presentation practice area with necessary equipment (e.g., projector, microphone) 4. Provide access to digital tools for any students creating digital artifacts 5. Compile resources or prompts for empathy and identity exploration discussion |
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| Week 6 | Day 26 | Day 27 | Day 28 | Day 29 | Day 30 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Artifact and Narrative Integration - Students work on integrating their artifacts into their narratives, ensuring each piece enhances the story and serves as a visual representation of key events (30 min)
Presentation Skills Workshop - Focus on refining presentation skills, including clear articulation, pacing, and engaging storytelling techniques for museum visitors (30 min)
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Interactive Presentation Practice - Students practice their presentations with peers, incorporating interactive elements to engage audience members effectively (30 min)
Feedback and Reflection Session - Engage in peer review to refine presentation delivery and artifact integration, followed by personal reflection on improvements (30 min)
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Exhibit Enhancement Session - Students focus on enhancing the visual appeal and coherence of their suitcase exhibits, ensuring clarity and impact for museum visitors (30 min)
Narrative Polishing Workshop - Finalize narrative essays, ensuring they are engaging, well-organized, and clearly connected to the artifacts (30 min)
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Dress Rehearsal - Simulate the museum experience with classmates acting as visitors, allowing students to practice storytelling and interaction skills comprehensively (40 min)
Feedback Reflection and Adjustment - Reflect on dress rehearsal feedback and make necessary adjustments to presentation and exhibit elements (20 min)
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Final Exhibit Setup - Students finalize the setup of their suitcase exhibits, ensuring each artifact and narrative is displayed effectively for public viewing (30 min)
Personal Reflection and Insight Sharing - Write a reflection on the learning journey and insights gained throughout the project, to be shared as part of the museum exhibit (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed suitcase exhibit with finalized artifacts
2. Revised narrative essay with peer-reviewed feedback incorporated 3. Practiced and prepared presentation for Migration Museum Day 4. Contribution to the shared timeline of migration stories 5. Reflection note or drawing on the Reflection Wall |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather materials for artifact creation, such as paper, markers, photos, or fabric
2. Provide access to computers or tablets for narrative essay revisions 3. Prepare peer review guidelines and feedback forms for narrative polishing 4. Set up presentation practice stations with audio-visual resources if necessary 5. Provide timeline templates and historical reference materials for collaborative timeline creation |
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| Week 7 | Day 31 | Day 32 | Day 33 | Day 34 | Day 35 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Final Narrative Polishing - Students refine their narratives for clarity and depth, incorporating detailed feedback to enhance storytelling and emotional engagement (30 min)
Artifact Review and Enhancement - Students review their artifacts, ensuring each piece effectively represents the migration journey and aligns with the narrative elements (30 min)
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Interactive Presentation Rehearsal - Students practice their presentations with peers, focusing on clear articulation and engaging the audience through interactive elements (30 min)
Peer Feedback and Reflection - Students provide and receive constructive feedback on presentation skills, reflecting on areas for improvement and adjusting accordingly (30 min)
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Final Exhibit Assembly - Students finalize the arrangement of their suitcase exhibits, ensuring artifacts and narratives are displayed cohesively and effectively (30 min)
Personal Reflection Writing - Students write a personal reflection on their learning journey, which will be included as part of their exhibit to provide visitors with personal insights (30 min)
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Dress Rehearsal with Peer Audience - Simulate the museum experience with classmates acting as visitors, allowing students to refine their presentation and interaction skills (40 min)
Reflective Discussion - Engage in a class discussion about insights gained from the dress rehearsal, focusing on improvements and confidence in presenting to the public (20 min)
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Final Touches and Setup - Students make final adjustments to their exhibits and set up in the designated museum space, ensuring readiness for public viewing (30 min)
Gallery Walk and Peer Review - Conduct a gallery walk where students visit peers' exhibits, providing feedback and learning from each other's presentations (30 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Completed and polished narrative essays ready for presentation.
2. Refined suitcase exhibits with a minimum of four artifacts and any necessary explanatory notes or labels. 3. Finalized invitational flyers for Migration Museum Day, ready for distribution. |
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| Preparation |
1. Gather additional materials for exhibit refinement such as art supplies, labels, and display boards.
2. Set up a practice area for presentation rehearsals, equipped with any necessary technology like projectors or audio equipment. 3. Prepare peer review feedback forms to guide constructive critique sessions. 4. Coordinate with school administration to arrange distribution of invitational flyers. 5. Organize a schedule for one-on-one teacher conferences to provide personalized feedback on narratives and presentations. |
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| Week 8 | Day 36 | Day 37 | Day 38 | Day 39 | Day 40 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Activities |
Final Exhibit Review - Conduct a review session to ensure all suitcase exhibits are complete and ready for display, checking for coherence and clarity in storytelling (30 min)
Presentation Touch-ups - Allow time for students to make last-minute adjustments to their presentations, focusing on clarity and engagement techniques (30 min)
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Interactive Presentation Practice - Host a session where students practice their presentations with peers acting as museum visitors, focusing on interaction and storytelling (30 min)
Feedback and Refinement - Facilitate a feedback exchange where students offer constructive criticism on peers' presentation skills, suggesting improvements (30 min)
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Exhibit Setup - Arrange suitcase exhibits in the designated 'Migration Museum' space, ensuring each story is accessible and visually appealing for visitors (30 min)
Personal Reflection Writing - Have students write a final personal reflection on their project journey and insights gained, to be displayed as part of their exhibit (30 min)
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Dress Rehearsal - Simulate the museum event with classmates acting as community members, allowing students to practice storytelling and interaction comprehensively (40 min)
Final Adjustments - Use feedback from the dress rehearsal to make necessary adjustments to presentations and exhibits for optimal impact (20 min)
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Migration Museum Day - Host the 'Migration Museum' event where students present and interact with visitors, sharing their migration stories and artifacts, and engaging in discussions (60 min)
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| Deliverables |
1. Complete and set up the symbolic suitcase exhibit with artifacts, ready for presentation.
2. Present the first-person narrative at the Migration Museum Day. 3. Submit a written reflection on learning about migration and identity. |
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| Preparation |
1. Ensure all exhibit materials and artifacts are complete and ready for display.
2. Set up the museum space, including arranging tables and stations for each group. 3. Prepare any multimedia elements, such as audio recordings or digital presentations, for exhibit enhancement. 4. Coordinate with school staff or community volunteers to assist in setting up and managing the event. 5. Create a schedule for presentation rotations and visitor engagement activities during the museum day. |
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