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6th Grade  Project 4 weeks

"Metabolism Madness: Fuel Your Fire"

San K
MS-LS1-7
MS-LS1-7
MS-LS2-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 6th-grade students in a comprehensive exploration of metabolism through hands-on, real-world activities. By integrating scientific inquiry with community collaboration, students will deepen their understanding of how metabolic processes influence health and lifestyle choices. The project encourages self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving as students develop models, conduct experiments, and interact with experts. Through reflection and presentation, students will solidify their knowledge and share insights with peers and the community, fostering a sense of identity and belonging in their educational journey.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of metabolism by exploring how food is transformed into energy and supports growth through chemical reactions. They will apply this knowledge to make informed decisions about healthy lifestyle choices and understand the impact of metabolism on overall health. Through interactive activities and community engagement, students will enhance their critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning skills while fostering a sense of identity and belonging in their learning community.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS1-7 - Develop a model to describe how food is rearranged through chemical reactions forming new molecules that support growth and/or release energy as this matter moves through an organism.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS1-7 - Develop a model to describe how food is rearranged through chemical reactions forming new molecules that support growth and/or release energy as this matter moves through an organism.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS2-3 - Develop a model to describe the cycling of matter and flow of energy among living and nonliving parts of an ecosystem.
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 series of 'Metabolism Myth Buster' videos, where they investigate and debunk common misconceptions about metabolism. These videos will be showcased at the Metabolism Fair, providing an opportunity for students to present their findings to peers and community members. Additionally, students will develop personalized meal plans and exercise routines based on metabolic principles, which they will refine through expert feedback and share during the Healthy Habits Expo.

Launch

Kick off the learning experience with a 'Metabolism Carnival' where students engage in interactive booths designed to introduce key concepts of metabolism. Activities such as a 'Build-a-Meal' station allow students to explore how different foods contribute to energy levels, while a 'Metabolic Maze' challenges them to navigate the pathways of digestion and energy conversion. This immersive experience sets the stage for deeper inquiry and sparks curiosity about how metabolism influences their daily lives.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Healthy Habits Expo' where they lead interactive workshops on metabolism-friendly exercises, inviting community members to participate and learn. Each student will guide a specific activity, demonstrating exercises that promote metabolic health and explaining their benefits. The expo will also feature student-created 'Metabolism Myth Buster' videos, providing an engaging platform for students to share their insights and debunk common misconceptions about metabolism with the community.