Students will engage in a dynamic, hands-on learning experience where they will explore and address real-world challenges by focusing on a specific UN Sustainable Development Goal. Through collaborative research and critical thinking, they will identify a country in need, define the problem, and develop innovative solutions. This project encourages students to apply their knowledge to create a detailed proposal, including cost analysis, and present it to peers and community partners, fostering a sense of global citizenship and practical problem-solving skills.
Learning goals
Students will explore global challenges by selecting a UN Sustainable Development Goal and researching its impact on a specific country, enhancing their understanding of world geography and populations. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by designing innovative solutions and estimating costs, culminating in a comprehensive proposal. Throughout the project, students will engage in self-directed learning, utilizing feedback and reflection to refine their work. By collaborating with peers and presenting their findings to community partners and school staff, students will build a sense of identity and belonging, fostering an academic mindset.
Standards
[National Council for the Social Studies] D4.7.3-5 - Explain different strategies and approaches students and others could take in working alone and together to address local, regional, and global problems, and predict possible results of their actions.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D4.6.K-2 - Identify and explain a range of local, regional, and global problems, and some ways in which people are trying to address these problems.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D4.7.K-2 - Identify ways to take action to help address local, regional, and global problems.
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 design and develop a comprehensive proposal that includes a detailed plan for addressing a specific UN Sustainable Development Goal in a chosen country. This proposal will feature written presentations, visual aids, and calculated cost estimates for the proposed solutions. Throughout the project, students will create world maps highlighting their selected regions, develop infographics illustrating population data, and design innovative solutions tailored to the community's needs. These products will be showcased in an exhibition where students present their work to peers, staff, and community partners, including representatives from the UN.
Launch
Kick off the project by inviting a representative from the UN to introduce the Sustainable Development Goals through an engaging virtual presentation. Facilitate a brainstorming session where students share their curiosities and initial thoughts about global challenges, encouraging them to connect personally with the issues. Use an interactive world map to explore various countries, discussing their unique needs and how different SDGs can address these. This launch will set the stage for students to select a goal and country that resonates with them, igniting their passion for the project.
Exhibition
Students will host a "Global Solutions Fair" where they present their proposals to classmates, teachers, and community members, including a representative from the UN as a community partner. Each group will set up a booth displaying their research, visual aids, and a detailed cost analysis of their proposed solution. Attendees will engage with students through interactive Q&A sessions, providing feedback and discussing the potential impact of the projects. This exhibition will foster a sense of accomplishment and encourage students to reflect on their learning journey and the real-world implications of their work.