"Service Superstars: Community Impact Challenge!"

9th Grade Project 3 weeks

"Service Superstars: Community Impact Challenge!"

Ron P

Self Directed Learning

Academic Mindset

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

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Purpose

The purpose of this service-learning project is to engage 9th-grade students in a hands-on, real-world challenge that addresses community needs while integrating academic skills. Through collaboration with community partners, students will develop innovative strategies to create sustainable impacts, fostering critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a strong academic mindset. This experience aims to deepen students' understanding of their role in the community, enhance their civic responsibility, and cultivate a sense of identity and belonging.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this service-learning project are to develop students' self-directed learning by encouraging them to use feedback and self-reflection to guide their progress. Students will also cultivate an academic mindset by establishing a sense of belonging and identity through meaningful community engagement. Additionally, critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be enhanced as students explore innovative approaches to address community issues, fostering a deeper understanding of their academic content and its real-world applications.

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 service-learning project, students will collaboratively create a comprehensive action plan addressing a community need, which will be documented in a digital portfolio. Midway, they will develop a progress report that includes visual and written reflections, showcasing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By the end, students will produce a multimedia presentation or video that highlights their project's impact, which will be shared during a classroom celebration and with the broader community through local media outlets.

Launch

To kick off the service-learning project, students will participate in a community needs assessment workshop facilitated by local community leaders and non-profit representatives. This interactive session will help students identify pressing issues in their community, brainstorm potential solutions, and understand the real-world impact of their service. Students will then form small groups to select a specific project focus, setting the stage for collaborative planning and action.

Exhibition

Students will host a classroom celebration where they present their projects to peers, teachers, and community partners, showcasing the tangible impact they've made. They will also engage with local media to share their journey and outcomes, highlighting their contributions to the community. This exhibition will serve as a platform for students to articulate their learning, reflections, and the significance of their service-learning experience, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Rubric

Learning Journey

Empathize

Students will engage with community members and local organizations to gather insights on their needs and challenges, setting the foundation for innovative solutions in subsequent phases.

Day 1