All grades  Project 4 weeks

"Minds Matter: Wellness Warriors Unite!"

Aleah M
PE.6-8.HF.3.2
PE.6-8.PR.4.3
PE.6-8.PR.4.1
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to foster a supportive community where students actively engage in understanding and enhancing their social, emotional, and mental well-being. Through collaboration with mental health professionals and creative expression, students will explore coping strategies, mindfulness, and relationship skills. This project emphasizes self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, allowing students to reflect on their personal growth and contribute meaningfully to their community's mental health awareness.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of the importance of social, emotional, and mental health by engaging in community-based workshops and collaborative projects. They will enhance their relationship skills, self-management, and decision-making abilities through interactive activities and reflective journaling. By creating and presenting multimedia projects, students will cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills while fostering a sense of identity and belonging. The goal is for students to actively participate in creating a supportive community that promotes well-being, while also gaining insights into the benefits of physical activity on mental health.
Standards
  • [North Carolina] PE.6-8.HF.3.2 - Summarize the potential short- and long-term physical, social, and emotional benefits of physical activity.
  • [North Carolina] PE.6-8.PR.4.3 - Apply relationship skills and strategies that promote team/group dynamics and inclusion.
  • [North Carolina] PE.6-8.PR.4.1 - Demonstrate self-management, responsible decision making, and problem-solving skills in a physical activity setting.
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 develop a series of podcasts and soundscapes that explore diverse mental health themes, capturing authentic student voices and experiences. They will also design and produce informative posters and digital presentations, creatively integrating research on mental health topics. These projects will culminate in an interactive digital platform, showcasing their podcasts, blogs, and digital art, launched during a community event to foster dialogue and awareness.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with "Sound Waves of Support," where students create soundscapes or audio collages that represent various emotions and mental states. This engaging activity sets the stage for exploring how podcasts can convey powerful messages about mental health. Students will collaborate in groups to brainstorm and produce their audio pieces, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose from the outset.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Mental Health Art Gallery' event, showcasing their creative expressions related to social, emotional, and mental health. The exhibition will feature diverse media, including artwork, poetry, and multimedia projects, inviting community members to engage interactively. Attendees will have opportunities to participate in guided discussions and activities led by the students, fostering a deeper understanding of the themes explored.