8th Grade  Project 2 weeks

"Plant Pals: Teamwork in Bloom!"

Mario G
VA:Cr1.2.8a
VA:Pr5.1.8a
MA:Cr1.1.8
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Engage in a collaborative project to design and create a sustainable mini-garden using recycled materials, fostering teamwork and creativity. Explore the essential question of how to optimize plant growth within a classroom environment while applying artistic and design principles. Through hands-on experimentation and critical reflection, develop self-directed learning skills and a deeper understanding of your role within the community and environment.

Learning goals

Collaboratively design and construct a vertical garden using recycled materials, applying creative processes to optimize space and resources. Investigate plant needs and experiment with environmental conditions to enhance the garden's success. Present your garden in a showcase, articulating how it meets the essential question and engages with contemporary art and design practices. Develop self-directed learning by utilizing feedback and reflection to guide your project. Cultivate an academic mindset and critical thinking skills by exploring innovative solutions to real-world challenges within your classroom community.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr1.2.8a - Collaboratively shape an artistic investigation of an aspect of present-day life using a contemporary practice of art and design.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Pr5.1.8a - Collaboratively prepare and present selected theme-based artwork for display and formulate exhibition narratives for the viewer.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MA:Cr1.1.8 - Generate ideas, goals, and solutions for original media artworks through application of focused creative processes, such as divergent thinking and experimenting.
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

Design and construct a vertical garden using recycled materials, showcasing your creativity and teamwork. Document your process through a series of photos or a video diary, highlighting key decisions and problem-solving moments. Prepare a presentation for a mini-garden showcase, where you will discuss your design choices, the challenges faced, and how your garden thrives in the classroom environment.

Launch

Begin your project by visiting a local community garden or watching a virtual tour of a unique urban garden. Observe and discuss the various plant setups and how they creatively use space and materials. Use this experience to brainstorm ideas for your own mini-garden design, considering how you can incorporate similar techniques into your classroom environment.

Exhibition

Organize a mini-garden showcase where you present your vertical garden design to classmates, teachers, and invited guests. Prepare an exhibition narrative that highlights your creative process, the challenges you faced, and the innovative solutions you developed. Facilitate a gallery walk where you can view and provide feedback on each other's gardens, focusing on how each design optimizes space and resources. Conclude with a reflection session, discussing insights gained and potential improvements for future projects.