1-Pager
8th Grade  Project 4 weeks

"Book Buddies: Read, Learn, Lead!"

Tamara S
C.8.5
M.CL.G2.A
M.CL.S2.A
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 8th-grade students in a dynamic exploration of literature through project-based learning, fostering critical thinking and self-directed learning. Students will collaboratively investigate how characters' decisions in literature mirror real-world ethical dilemmas, enhancing their understanding of narrative structures and settings. By participating in student-led assessments, narrative mapping workshops, and Socratic seminars, students will develop a deeper sense of identity and belonging, while honing their ability to consider diverse perspectives and solve complex problems.

Learning goals

Students will conduct short research projects by forming reading groups to explore literature, focusing on how characters' decisions and actions reflect real-world ethical dilemmas. They will collaboratively map narratives to analyze the influence of setting on story development, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Through self-directed learning, students will utilize feedback and self-reflection to guide their inquiry process, while engaging in Socratic seminars to deepen their understanding of personal values and ethical decision-making. This project will also enhance their academic mindset by establishing a sense of identity and belonging within the learning community.
Standards
  • [Kentucky] C.8.5 - Conduct short research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question), drawing on several sources and generating new avenues for inquiry.
  • [Kentucky] M.CL.G2.A - Account for your positive contribution to learning in a group.
  • [Kentucky] M.CL.S2.A - Seek other perspectives in their own inquiry process when solving problems.
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 create a digital story map that visually represents the plot, setting, and character development of their reading group books. Each group will produce a reflective video presentation where they analyze ethical dilemmas faced by the characters and connect them to real-world scenarios. Additionally, students will compile a portfolio of their self-directed learning reflections, including feedback from peers and teachers, demonstrating their growth in critical thinking and problem-solving throughout the project.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Narrative Mapping Workshop' where students work in reading groups to create visual maps of their book's plot and setting. Encourage students to use creative materials like poster boards, digital tools, or 3D models to illustrate how the setting influences character decisions and story development. This collaborative activity will set the stage for deeper exploration of the essential questions and foster a sense of ownership and engagement from the start.

Exhibition

At the culmination of the project, students will host a "Literary Ethics Expo" where they present their narrative maps and engage in discussions with peers, teachers, and community members about the ethical dilemmas explored in their reading group books. Each group will create a visual display that highlights key plot points, settings, and character decisions, accompanied by a reflective piece on how these elements relate to real-world ethical challenges. This event will provide an opportunity for students to showcase their critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and personal reflections, fostering a deeper understanding of literature's connection to real-life issues.