6th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Middle School Memories: My Journey in Pages

Mónica C
VA:Cr3.1.6a
VA:Cn10.1.6a
ESS.2.A
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to enable students to creatively document and reflect on their first year in middle school through art and storytelling. By designing a personal scrapbook, students will engage in self-reflection, enhancing their understanding of personal growth, challenges, and achievements. This project fosters a sense of identity and belonging, encourages critical thinking, and strengthens communication skills as students collaborate with peers, teachers, and parents. Through this hands-on project, students will develop a deeper connection to their community and gain confidence in their ability to express themselves artistically.

Learning goals

Students will develop self-directed learning skills by using feedback and self-reflection to guide their scrapbook creation process. They will cultivate an academic mindset by exploring their personal identity and sense of belonging through art and storytelling. Critical thinking and problem-solving skills will be enhanced as students creatively address the essential question, using innovative approaches to convey their middle school experiences.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cr3.1.6a - Reflect on whether personal artwork conveys the intended meaning and revise accordingly.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] VA:Cn10.1.6a - Generate a collection of ideas reflecting current interests and concerns that could be investigated in art-making.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] ESS.2.A - Earth Materials and Systems
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 personalized scrapbook that captures their first year in middle school through hand-drawn illustrations, personal narratives, and collected artifacts like ticket stubs and event flyers. Each week, they will add a reflection journal entry that documents their academic and socio-emotional experiences, focusing on growth and challenges. The project culminates in a 'Journey Through Art' exhibition where students present their scrapbooks and share their favorite page, emphasizing their artistic and storytelling journey.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Time Capsule Creation' session where students write letters to their future selves about their first semester experiences. Encourage them to reflect on their hopes, fears, and aspirations for the rest of the school year. These letters will be sealed and included in their scrapbooks, to be revisited at the project's conclusion, setting a reflective tone and personal connection to their upcoming work.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the project, students will present their scrapbooks to peers, teachers, and parents in a 'Journey Through Art' exhibition. Each scrapbook will be displayed in a gallery format, allowing visitors to explore the personal narratives and artistic expressions of the students. During the exhibition, students will give brief presentations on their favorite page, discussing the use of art and storytelling to convey their personal growth. Attendees will have the opportunity to leave positive feedback and reflections on sticky notes, fostering a supportive and celebratory environment.