"Shine Bright: Anti-Bullying Poster Parade!"

Plan

8th Grade Project 1 week

"Shine Bright: Anti-Bullying Poster Parade!"

Gurleen K

MS-ESS1-1

MU:Cr2.1.7.b

Self Directed Learning

Academic Mindset

+ 1 more

1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 8th-grade students in a creative and reflective project that connects scientific understanding of lunar phases with the emotional complexities of bullying. By developing anti-bullying posters using moon phases as metaphors, students will explore personal and communal emotional cycles, fostering self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a deeper sense of identity and belonging. Through collaborative activities and community showcases, students will gain insights into the impact of bullying and express their reflections artistically, contributing to a supportive school environment.

Learning goals

Students will develop an understanding of the Earth-sun-moon system and its cyclic patterns while exploring the emotional impact of bullying through creative expression. They will apply critical thinking to draw connections between lunar phases and emotional experiences, using these insights to create meaningful anti-bullying posters. Through self-directed learning, students will engage in reflection and collaboration, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. They will also practice documenting their creative process and insights, enhancing their ability to communicate complex ideas visually and verbally.

Standards

[Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-1 - Develop and use a model of the Earth-sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.
[Next Generation Science Standards] MS-ESS1-1 - Develop and use a model of the Earth-sun-moon system to describe the cyclic patterns of lunar phases, eclipses of the sun and moon, and seasons.
[National Core Arts Standards] MU:Cr2.1.7.b - Use standard and/or iconic notation and/or audio/video recording to document personal simple rhythmic phrases, melodic phrases, and harmonic sequences.

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 anti-bullying posters using moon phases as metaphors, employing artistic techniques such as collage, drawing, or digital design to visually depict the emotional cycles experienced by those affected by bullying. Each poster will be accompanied by a written or recorded explanation of the chosen metaphor and its significance. These posters will be showcased in a 'Lunar Light Showcase' exhibition, where students share their insights and creative process with peers and teachers in small groups.

Launch

Begin with an interactive simulation of the Earth-sun-moon system, allowing students to manipulate the positions and observe the resulting lunar phases. Follow this with a group discussion on how these phases could metaphorically represent emotional experiences. Encourage students to share personal stories or observations related to bullying, fostering a supportive environment. Conclude the launch by introducing the project challenge: creating anti-bullying posters using moon phases as metaphors.

Exhibition

Organize a 'Lunar Light Showcase' where students present their anti-bullying posters to peers and teachers in an engaging and interactive format. Each student will share their metaphor and artistic representation in small groups, fostering dialogue and reflection. Encourage attendees to provide constructive feedback, promoting a sense of community and shared learning.