High School Grade  Project 11 weeks

Sunny Shelters: Cool Solutions for San Diego

Maurice F
HS-LS4-6
HS-PS3-3
HS-ESS3-2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage high school students in a meaningful, real-world learning experience where they design and construct sustainable shade shelters for vulnerable communities in San Diego. Students will apply principles of science, engineering, and design to create innovative solutions that address the challenges of extreme heat. Through collaboration with community partners and professionals, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while contributing to climate resilience and equity in their local community.

Learning goals

Students will develop skills in woodworking, solar energy integration, and sustainable design by constructing shade shelters that address extreme heat conditions. They will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving to evaluate and refine their designs based on real-world constraints and community feedback. Through collaboration with community partners, students will gain insights into environmental challenges and innovative solutions, fostering a deeper understanding of climate resilience. Additionally, students will enhance their self-directed learning by utilizing feedback and reflection to guide their project development and personal growth.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-LS4-6 - Create or revise a simulation to test a solution to mitigate adverse impacts of human activity on biodiversity.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-PS3-3 - Design, build, and refine a device that works within given constraints to convert one form of energy into another form of energy.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS3-2 - Evaluate competing design solutions for developing, managing, and utilizing energy and mineral resources based on cost-benefit ratios.
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 design and build modular shade shelters that incorporate sustainable materials and solar-powered fans, providing cooling solutions for hot areas in San Diego. These structures will be portable and easy to assemble, allowing for flexibility in deployment across different locations. Additionally, students will create artistically designed shade structures that reflect local cultural elements, serving as functional cooling spaces and public art installations to promote community engagement and awareness of climate resilience.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive 'Heat Experience Day' where students participate in a series of interactive stations that simulate extreme heat conditions and explore the challenges faced by vulnerable communities. Incorporate virtual reality experiences, hands-on activities, and expert talks to deepen understanding of the local climate impact. This engaging launch will set the stage for students to connect personally with the project's purpose and inspire innovative thinking in designing sustainable shade shelters.

Exhibition

Organize the 'Cool Creations Expo' at a local park, where students display their completed shade shelters to community members, environmental organizations, and local government officials. Include interactive demonstrations of the solar-powered cooling systems to engage attendees and highlight the shelters' innovative features. Conclude with a ribbon-cutting ceremony for one of the structures, symbolizing the project's impact and celebrating students' contributions to climate resilience.