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All grades  Project 2 weeks

"Planet Earth Adventure Quest!"

Maribeth M
ESS.1.C
ESS.3.C
HS-ESS1-6
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse students in understanding the interconnectedness of Earth's natural cycles and their impact on the environment and climate. By engaging in hands-on activities like creating a mural and a class garden, students will explore scientific concepts while fostering self-directed learning and critical thinking. The project encourages students to reflect on their role in environmental conservation, promoting a sense of identity and belonging within their community. Through collaboration with community partners, students gain real-world insights into sustainable practices, enhancing their academic mindset and problem-solving skills.

Learning goals

Students will explore and understand the interconnectedness of Earth's natural cycles and their impact on the environment and climate. They will develop skills in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving by engaging in hands-on activities such as creating a mural and a class garden. Through collaboration with community partners and reflective journaling, students will deepen their sense of place and identity, recognizing their role in environmental conservation and climate change mitigation.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] ESS.1.C - The History of Planet Earth
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] ESS.3.C - Human Impacts on Earth Systems
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ESS1-6 - Apply scientific reasoning and evidence from ancient Earth materials, meteorites, and other planetary surfaces to construct an account of Earth's formation and early history.
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 construct a large mural that illustrates the interconnectedness of Earth's cycles, which will be displayed in the school hallway for a gallery walk. Each student will contribute to the mural by creating individual pieces that represent different aspects of Earth's natural cycles, such as the water cycle or carbon cycle. Additionally, students will develop a digital portfolio that includes photos, drawings, and written reflections from the project, showcasing their learning journey and growth.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Community Eco-Quest' scavenger hunt around the school or a local park. Students will explore and document examples of Earth's cycles in action, such as observing photosynthesis in plants or identifying signs of erosion in soil. This interactive experience will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper investigation into Earth's natural cycles and their impact on the environment.

Exhibition

Students will host an 'Earth's Cycles Gallery Walk' in the school hallway, showcasing their collaborative mural and individual reflections. Parents and community partners, including representatives from the local recycling center, will be invited to engage with the students as they explain the interconnectedness of Earth's cycles and the importance of recycling. This interactive exhibition will provide a platform for students to articulate their learning and insights, fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship.