Middle School Grade  Project 4 weeks

PE Field Clean-Up Challenge!

NATIVIDAD B
VA:Cr2.2.6a
DA:Pr5.1.7.b
MS-ESS3-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage middle school students in a real-world project that fosters environmental responsibility and community collaboration. Students will actively participate in designing and implementing a 'Trash-Free Field' campaign, promoting cleanliness and sustainability within their school. Through hands-on activities, students will develop critical thinking, self-directed learning, and an academic mindset, while working alongside community partners to achieve a shared goal.

Learning goals

Students will develop self-control and an understanding of the importance of cleanliness by actively participating in the 'Trash-Free Field' campaign. They will engage with community partners to foster a sense of belonging and responsibility towards their school environment. Through critical thinking and problem-solving, students will design innovative strategies to reduce trash and apply scientific principles to monitor environmental impact, aligning with the National Core Arts and Next Generation Science Standards.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr2.2.6a - Explain environmental implications of conservation, care, and clean up of art materials, tools, and equipment.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Pr5.1.7.b - Utilize healthful practices and sound nutrition in dance activities and everyday life. Discuss benefits of practices and how choices enhance performance.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS3-3 - Apply scientific principles to design a method for monitoring and minimizing a human impact on 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 collaboratively design and implement a 'Trash-Free Field' campaign, creating informative posters and announcements to educate peers on maintaining a clean environment. Throughout the project, students will engage in weekly feedback sessions to refine their materials and strategies. The campaign will culminate in a presentation at a school-wide showcase, where students will share their findings and the impact of their efforts on the Physical Education field.

Launch

Kick off the project with an engaging kickball game on the Physical Education field, where students will observe and document the current state of cleanliness. Following the game, facilitate a group discussion to brainstorm initial ideas for the 'Trash-Free Field' campaign. Encourage students to reflect on their observations and consider the impact of litter on their playing environment, setting the stage for the project's essential question.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their 'Trash-Free Field' campaign during a school-wide exhibition in the gym. They will present their informative posters and deliver announcements to educate peers about the significance of maintaining a clean environment. The exhibition will feature interactive stations where students demonstrate their trash reduction strategies and share insights gained from their collaboration with community partners. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in discussions and provide feedback, fostering a sense of community involvement and commitment to the project's goals.