This project aims to immerse high school students in the fundamentals of firefighting through a hands-on, experiential learning approach. By engaging with real-world scenarios and collaborating with local fire department professionals, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of firefighting roles, safety protocols, and community preparedness. The project fosters critical thinking, teamwork, and self-directed learning, empowering students to explore innovative solutions to fire-related challenges while strengthening their sense of community responsibility.
Learning goals
Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of firefighting, including the science and technology used to prevent and combat fires, as well as the roles and responsibilities within a firefighting team. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by exploring fire behavior and safety protocols, and learn to apply these concepts to real-world scenarios. By engaging with community partners and participating in hands-on activities, students will build self-directed learning skills and establish a sense of identity and belonging within their community.
Standards
[National Core Arts Standards] DA:Pr5.1.I.b - Develop a plan for healthful practices in dance activities and everyday life including nutrition and injury prevention. Discuss implementation of the plan and how it supports personal performance goals.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Pr5.3.a - Participate in a variety of physical, vocal, and cognitive exercises that can be used in a group setting for drama/theatre work.
[Next Generation Science Standards] 3-ESS3-1 - Make a claim about the merit of a design solution that reduces the impacts of a weather-related hazard.
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
Throughout the learning experience, students will create informative posters and pamphlets on fire prevention and safety protocols. These materials will be distributed at the exhibition to showcase their research and understanding of community preparedness. Additionally, students will collaboratively design and present a trifold display that demonstrates their learning about firefighting roles, technologies, and strategies.
Launch
To kick off the learning experience, students will visit a local fire station where they will participate in hands-on activities such as using a fire hose and trying on firefighting gear. This field trip will allow students to explore the facilities, learn about the various roles within a firefighting team, and engage directly with firefighters to understand the real-world application of their work. The immersive experience will set the stage for the project's focus on teamwork, technology, and community safety.
Exhibition
During the J-term exhibition night, students will present their trifolds and informative posters on fire prevention and safety protocols to the public. They will engage with attendees, explaining their research and demonstrating their understanding of firefighting strategies and community preparedness. Students will also participate in live demonstrations of firefighting techniques learned during the project, showcasing their skills and knowledge in a dynamic and interactive setting. This exhibition will serve as both a celebration of their learning and a platform for community education on fire safety.
