All grades  Project 6 weeks

"Book Banning Bonanza: Read or Reject?"

Khalia J
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.K.5
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.1.5
3B-IC-28
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

Students will explore the concept of book banning to understand who has access to education and the implications of restricting information. Through project-based activities, they will examine different types of books, debate the impact of book bans, and create their own narratives or informational texts. This experience will foster critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of identity as they engage in discussions and reflections on the role of literature in society.

Learning goals

Students will investigate the concept of book banning and its impact on access to education, using a range of texts to identify and compare storytelling and informational books. They will engage in debates about laws affecting software development, drawing parallels to censorship in literature. Through self-directed learning, students will reflect on their own educational access and identity, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in their communities. They will develop critical thinking skills by exploring innovative solutions to ensure equitable access to educational resources.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.K.5 - Identify the front cover, back cover, and title page of a book.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.1.5 - Explain major differences between books that tell stories and books that give information, drawing on a wide reading of a range of text types.
  • [Computer Science Teachers Association] 3B-IC-28 - Debate laws and regulations that impact the development and use of software.
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 digital presentation that explores the concept of book banning across different cultures and time periods, highlighting its impact on education access. They will design and conduct interviews with community members or experts to gather diverse perspectives, documenting these insights in a multimedia format. Additionally, students will develop a proposal for a community event or campaign that raises awareness about the importance of diverse literature, which they will present to their peers and school community.

Launch

Begin the project with a "Book Exploration Day" where students bring in a variety of books from home or the library. Set up stations where they can explore different types of books, such as storybooks and informational texts, and identify their components like the front cover, back cover, and title page. Facilitate a group discussion on the differences between these books and introduce the essential question, "Who has access to education?" Encourage students to reflect on their own experiences with books and education, setting the stage for deeper inquiry and personal connection to the topic.

Exhibition

Students will create a multimedia presentation or digital portfolio that explores the impact of book banning on access to education. They will showcase their research, reflections, and proposed solutions to this issue, incorporating both narrative and informational texts. The exhibition will be open to peers, teachers, and community members, encouraging dialogue and debate on the topic. Students will use this platform to demonstrate their critical thinking and problem-solving skills, as well as their understanding of the broader implications of book banning in society.