8th Grade  Project 1 week

Windy Wonders: Sand Sculptures in Motion!

Elisi S
MS-ESS2-1
MS-ESS2-5
MS-ESS2-4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to immerse students in an engaging exploration of wind erosion and deposition, where they actively investigate and model the dynamic interactions shaping Earth's landscapes. Through collaborative projects, digital storytelling, and interactive challenges, students will deepen their understanding of scientific principles while honing critical thinking, self-directed learning, and academic mindset competencies. This hands-on approach encourages students to connect scientific concepts to real-world contexts, fostering a sense of belonging and identity as they address complex environmental questions relevant to their communities.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of how wind patterns and speeds influence landscape changes over time, aligning with the Next Generation Science Standards. They will enhance their self-directed learning skills by using feedback and reflection to guide their project development. Through critical thinking and problem-solving, students will explore the socio-economic and environmental impacts of wind erosion, gaining a sense of place and identity in relation to their community. The project will culminate in students creating digital presentations or videos that demonstrate their ability to collect and analyze data, model Earth's material cycling, and predict future landscape changes.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS2-1 - Develop a model to describe the cycling of Earth's materials and the flow of energy that drives this process.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS2-5 - Collect data to provide evidence for how the motions and complex interactions of air masses results in changes in weather conditions.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS2-4 - Develop a model to describe the cycling of water through Earth's systems driven by energy from the sun and the force of gravity.
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 presentation or video that documents the transformation of a landscape due to wind patterns, incorporating historical data and future predictions. They will also construct physical or digital models that demonstrate the processes of wind erosion and deposition, which will be showcased during a gallery walk. Additionally, students will prepare discussion points and questions for the 'Wind Patterns Film Festival' to engage in critical conversations about their findings and the broader implications on communities.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive 'Wind Erosion Escape Room' challenge, where students work in teams to solve interactive puzzles related to wind patterns and landscape changes. Each puzzle unlocks clues about their upcoming project, sparking curiosity and excitement. This dynamic activity sets the stage for the week, encouraging collaboration and critical thinking as students begin to explore the essential question of how wind influences landscapes.

Exhibition

Students will participate in a 'Wind Patterns Film Festival,' where they present their digital presentations or videos in a theater-style setting. The event will include popcorn and a discussion session, allowing students to engage with their peers and the audience in exploring the essential question of how wind patterns shape landscapes. This exhibition provides a platform for students to showcase their understanding, receive feedback, and reflect on their learning journey in an interactive and communal environment.