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1st Grade  Project 4 weeks

Sound Safari: Exploring Audio Adventures!

Mara C
1-PS4-1
RF.1.2
RL.1.4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse first-grade students in the exploration of sound through hands-on, real-world experiences. By engaging with local musicians and experimenting with everyday objects, students will discover the science behind sound creation and vibration. The project aims to foster self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging, as students design and build their own musical instruments. Through reflection and community involvement, students will deepen their understanding of sound and its impact on their environment.

Learning goals

Students will understand the principles of sound production and vibration by engaging in hands-on activities that demonstrate how sound travels through different mediums. They will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by designing and constructing musical instruments, exploring how changes in materials and structure affect sound. Through self-directed learning, students will reflect on their experiences in a Sound Diary, fostering academic mindset and self-efficacy. By participating in peer reviews and community interactions, students will enhance their sense of identity and belonging while applying feedback to improve their projects.
Standards
  • [California] 1-PS4-1 - Plan and conduct investigations to provide evidence that vibrating materials can make sound and that sound can make materials vibrate.
  • [California] RF.1.2 - Demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
  • [California] RL.1.4 - Identify words and phrases in stories or poems that suggest feelings or appeal to the senses. (See grade 1 Language standards 4–6 for additional expectations.)
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

Throughout the project, students will design and build various musical instruments using everyday objects, such as a string instrument from a shoebox and rubber bands, a water xylophone with glasses and spoons, a homemade drum from a coffee can and balloons, a wind instrument from straws, and a shaker using a plastic bottle and rice or beans. By the end of the project, students will have a collection of these instruments, each demonstrating different sound principles like pitch, resonance, and rhythm. These creations will be showcased in a 'Sound Celebration Parade,' where students will play their instruments and share their learning journey with peers and community partners.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a 'Sound Discovery Day,' where students are immersed in the world of sound. Invite local musicians to perform and demonstrate various instruments, showcasing how sound is produced. Follow this with interactive sessions where students experiment with creating sounds using household items, sparking curiosity and excitement for the exploration ahead.

Exhibition

Students will showcase their musical creations in a 'Sound Celebration Parade,' marching through the school while playing the instruments they designed. This lively event invites community partners and other classes to join in, highlighting the students' hands-on exploration and understanding of sound. The parade serves as a festive culmination of the project, celebrating the students' creativity and learning journey in a vibrant and engaging manner.