5th, 6th, 7th, 8th Grades  Project 4 weeks

FitSpace: Design Your Dream Gym!

Aleah M
DA:Pr4.1.8.a
3-5.AF.2.5
DA:Pr4.1.7.a
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in designing a multifunctional gym space that addresses the diverse needs of their school community while promoting sustainability and wellness. Through hands-on activities, students will explore innovative design principles, integrate cultural elements, and collaborate with community partners to create a gym that fosters school spirit and encourages lifelong physical activity. This experience aims to develop students' critical thinking, self-directed learning, and academic mindset by allowing them to take ownership of their learning and contribute meaningfully to their community.

Learning goals

Students will design a multifunctional gym space that integrates sustainability, innovation, and school spirit, applying principles of physical fitness and wellness. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by exploring diverse approaches to meet community needs while incorporating eco-friendly materials and technologies. Through self-directed learning, students will use feedback and reflection to refine their designs, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. They will also enhance their communication skills by presenting their projects and engaging with community partners, promoting lifelong physical activity and wellness.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Pr4.1.8.a - Sculpt the body in space and design body shapes in relation to other dancers, objects, and environment. Use focus of eyes during complex floor and air patterns or direct and indirect pathways.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 3-5.AF.2.5 - Develop a diagram or simple physical prototype to convey a proposed object, tool, or process.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Pr4.1.7.a - Expand movement vocabulary of floor and air pattern designs. Incorporate and modify body designs from different dance genres and styles for the purpose of expanding movement vocabulary to include differently designed shapes and movements for interest and contrast.
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 digital 3D walkthrough of the proposed gym space, showcasing innovative fitness equipment and activities that cater to diverse fitness needs. Additionally, they will construct a scale model using recycled and eco-friendly materials, integrating school colors and logos to reflect the school's history and culture. These products will be displayed at the 'Fit for the Future' event, where students will present their designs to the school community, highlighting how their gym models promote wellness and sustainability.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Gym Design Challenge Kickoff' event, where students engage in interactive mini-challenges. These activities will introduce concepts of sustainability, innovation, and school spirit, such as sketching gym features or brainstorming eco-friendly materials. This hands-on experience will ignite excitement and creativity, setting the stage for the design process.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Fit for the Future' event, showcasing their gym designs to school staff, parents, and local community members. Each student will present a digital 3D walkthrough and a scale model of their proposed gym space, emphasizing innovative fitness features and sustainable elements. Attendees will engage with interactive demonstrations, allowing them to experience firsthand how the designs promote wellness and reflect the school's history and culture.