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8th Grade  Lesson 45 minutes

Maíz: Del Pasado Mesoamericano al Presente!

Isabel
MA:Cn11.1.8.a
D2.His.13.6-8
D2.Civ.14.6-8
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage students in a hands-on exploration of maize's cultural and economic significance from Mesoamerican times to the present. Through interactive activities such as cooking demonstrations, storytelling, and multimedia presentations, students will deepen their understanding of maize's historical role and its contemporary relevance. This project-based approach encourages critical thinking, self-directed learning, and a sense of identity and belonging as students connect with diverse cultural narratives and reflect on maize's impact on society.

Learning goals

Students will explore the cultural and economic significance of maize by comparing its historical uses in Mesoamerica with its contemporary applications. They will develop critical thinking skills by analyzing primary and secondary sources, and enhance self-directed learning through peer feedback and self-reflection. Students will also cultivate an academic mindset by establishing connections between their personal experiences and the broader historical context of maize.
Standards
  • [National Core Arts Standards] MA:Cn11.1.8.a - Demonstrate and explain how media artworks and ideas relate to various contexts, purposes, and values, such as democracy, environment, and connecting people and places.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.His.13.6-8 - Evaluate the relevancy and utility of a historical source based on information such as maker, date, place of origin, intended audience, and purpose.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.14.6-8 - Compare historical and contemporary means of changing societies, and promoting the common good.
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 multimedia presentation that compares the historical and contemporary uses of maize, incorporating insights from a cooking demonstration and personal reflections. They will also design and construct a timeline mural that illustrates the evolution of maize from Mesoamerican times to the present, highlighting key cultural and economic milestones. These products will be showcased during the 'Maize Through Time' gallery walk, where students will also display posters and artifacts related to maize's significance.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a 'Maize Storytelling Circle,' where students gather to share and listen to captivating stories and myths about maize from Mesoamerican cultures. This immersive storytelling session will set the stage for exploring maize's historical and modern-day significance, sparking curiosity and engagement. Encourage students to reflect on the narratives and consider how these stories connect to their own lives and communities.

Exhibition

The 'Maize Through Time' gallery walk will transform the school auditorium into an interactive learning space where students showcase their multimedia presentations, timeline murals, and artifacts. Each student will have a designated area to display their work, inviting peers, teachers, and community members to explore and engage with their findings. The event will include live presentations, where students explain their projects and answer questions, creating a dynamic environment for sharing knowledge and fostering dialogue about maize's significance across time.