Kindergarten Grade  Lesson 30 minutes

"K.G.1: Kindergarten Geometry Adventure!"

Amber K
KY.K.G.1
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage kindergarten students in exploring and understanding the role of shapes in their environment through hands-on projects and community interaction. By participating in activities like creating art, building models, and collaborating with a community garden, students will develop critical thinking, self-reflection, and storytelling skills. This approach fosters a sense of belonging and identity as students connect classroom learning with real-world applications, enhancing their academic mindset and self-directed learning capabilities.

Learning goals

Students will identify and describe shapes found in their environment, understanding how these shapes contribute to the design and function of everyday objects. They will engage in self-directed learning by using feedback to refine their models and storytelling, fostering a sense of belonging and identity through collaborative projects. By participating in community-based activities, students will develop critical thinking skills, exploring innovative ways to connect shapes with real-world applications.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] KY.K.G.1 - Name and describe shapes in the environment.
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 create a 'Shape Storybook' where they illustrate and narrate a story using various shapes, which they will present during a reading session with classmates and community members. Additionally, they will collaborate with a community garden to design and plant a 'Shape Garden', using plots in the form of circles, squares, and triangles to showcase their understanding of shapes in a real-world context. These projects will culminate in a 'Shape Puppet Show', where students use shape-based puppets to narrate their learning journey, performing for an audience of peers, families, and community members.

Launch

Begin with a 'Shape Art Day' where students explore the classroom and playground to collect various objects representing different shapes. Back in the classroom, provide art supplies and encourage students to use these shapes to create unique art pieces. Facilitate a gallery walk where students share their creations, fostering excitement and curiosity about how shapes form the world around them.

Exhibition

Students will perform a 'Shape Puppet Show' using puppets crafted from various shapes to narrate their learning journey. This exhibition will be presented to classmates, families, and community members, showcasing the students' understanding of shapes and their applications in storytelling. The event will highlight the creativity and critical thinking skills developed throughout the project, offering an engaging and interactive experience for the audience.