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11th Grade  Project 8 weeks

"Pages of the Past: San Diego Stories"

Kelly B
Historical Interpretation 9-12.5
Chronological and Spatial Thinking 9-12.3
Chronological and Spatial Thinking 9-12.4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in an immersive exploration of San Diego's human and biological history, with a focus on Indigenous perspectives. Through hands-on research, artistic expression, and community collaboration, students will uncover and honor the untold stories of the land, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural landscapes and environmental interactions. This experience aims to develop critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a strong academic mindset, empowering students to connect with their community and history in meaningful ways.

Learning goals

Students will critically analyze the historical interactions between humans and the natural environment in San Diego, focusing on Indigenous perspectives and narratives. They will develop research skills, including archival research and field data collection, to accurately represent these stories in their creative projects. Through collaboration with community partners, students will gain a deeper understanding of Indigenous sovereignty and cultural preservation, integrating these insights into their artistic and performative expressions. The project aims to foster self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a strong sense of place and identity among students as they engage with the complex histories and ongoing stories of the land.
Standards
  • [California] Historical Interpretation 9-12.5 - Students analyze human modifications of landscapes and examine the resulting environmental policy issues.
  • [California] Chronological and Spatial Thinking 9-12.3 - Students use a variety of maps and documents to interpret human movement, including major patterns of domestic and international migration, changing environmental preferences and settlement patterns, the frictions that develop between population groups, and the diffusion of ideas, technological innovations, and goods.
  • [California] Chronological and Spatial Thinking 9-12.4 - Students relate current events to the physical and human characteristics of places and regions.
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 collaboratively create a large-scale plywood book, with each group designing two pages that integrate ecological data, Indigenous narratives, and artistic elements. Additionally, they will produce a community mural in partnership with local Indigenous artists, visually narrating the region's history and stories. The project culminates in a 'Voices of the Land' evening event where students perform their pieces, showcasing their research and creative expressions.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Hands-On History' workshop at the San Diego Natural History Museum, where students will engage directly with artifacts and historical documents. This immersive experience will be enriched by interactive sessions with museum experts, providing insights into the ecological and cultural transformations of the San Diego region. This launch will set the stage for students to explore the essential questions and begin their journey of uncovering and honoring the untold stories of the Indigenous peoples of San Diego.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Voices of the Land' evening event, where they will perform their persuasive and performative pieces using traditional Indigenous storytelling methods learned from community partners. The event will feature the large plywood book display, showcasing the students' research and creative expressions. Additionally, a community mural painted collaboratively with local Indigenous artists will serve as a powerful visual backdrop, narrating the history and stories of the land. This exhibition invites peers, family, and community members to engage with the narratives and celebrate the students' work in honoring Indigenous perspectives.