9th Grade  Project 6 weeks

Rat Race: The Big Apple Escape Plan!

Jenn C
CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-RN.B.3
CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-RN.B.3
CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-VM.A.2
Identifying allies
Public policy
+ 1 more
1-pager

The Challenge

New York City is grappling with a significant rat infestation problem, exacerbated by inefficient waste management and disposal practices. This issue poses health risks to residents and highlights the urgent need for sustainable urban waste solutions to protect both human and environmental well-being.
Challenge Question
How can we effectively reduce the rat population in New York City by improving waste management practices and engaging the community in sustainable solutions?
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-RN.B.3 - Explain why the sum or product of two rational numbers is rational; that the sum of a rational number and an irrational number is irrational; and that the product of a nonzero rational number and an irrational number is irrational.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-RN.B.3 - Explain why the sum or product of two rational numbers is rational; that the sum of a rational number and an irrational number is irrational; and that the product of a nonzero rational number and an irrational number is irrational.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-VM.A.2 - (+) Find the components of a vector by subtracting the coordinates of an initial point from the coordinates of a terminal point.
Competencies
  • Self-Advocacy - Identifying allies (LL.SD.3.a)
  • Governments - Public policy (FK.SS.1.c)
  • Politics - Influencing government (FK.SS.2.a)

Learning Partners and Clients

Collaborate with the New York City Department of Sanitation to provide students with insights into current waste management practices and policies. Engage with GrowNYC to involve students in hands-on community clean-up projects, allowing them to witness the impact of waste management on urban wildlife firsthand. These partnerships will guide students in understanding the connection between public policy, environmental health, and the role of community action in addressing urban challenges.

Phase Outcomes

Phase Learning Outcome
Discover
I can identify the challenge of rat infestations in NYC and understand its root causes through engaging activities that spark my curiosity and conviction to address the problem.
Examine
I can research the causes and effects of rat infestations by conducting interviews with local residents, analyzing waste management practices, and collaborating with environmental experts to gather comprehensive insights.
Engineer
I can develop a community awareness campaign that educates residents on effective waste management practices, designing and building materials that will have a positive impact on reducing rat infestations.
Do
I can implement my campaign by distributing informational materials, hosting a neighborhood event, and collecting data on community engagement and behavior changes to test the effectiveness of my solution.
Share
I can share my built solution and learning journey with an authentic audience, including peers, community members, and local organizations, reflecting on my personal growth and the impact of my project.