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Pre-k, Kindergarten Grades  Project 8 weeks

"Community Helpers: Finding Friendly Faces!"

Erin S
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.K.3
D2.Civ.6.K-2
K-2.AF.1.2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to equip young students with essential life skills for effective communication and seeking help within their community. Through engaging, hands-on activities, students will learn to recognize community helpers, communicate personal information, and use AAC devices if needed. The project fosters self-directed learning, critical thinking, and a sense of belonging, enabling students to confidently navigate real-world situations.

Learning goals

Students will learn to effectively communicate their personal information and seek assistance from community helpers using both verbal and AAC methods. They will practice identifying community helpers and understanding their roles through interactive activities and real-world engagements. Students will develop skills in navigating familiar environments and using appropriate communication strategies to address their needs. Through collaborative projects, they will enhance their ability to reflect on their experiences and articulate their learning journey.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.K.3 - Ask and answer questions in order to seek help, get information, or clarify something that is not understood.
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.6.K-2 - Describe how communities work to accomplish common tasks, establish responsibilities, and fulfill roles of authority.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] K-2.AF.1.2 - Ask and/or identify questions that can be answered by an investigation.
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 learning experience, students will create a photo collage project, capturing moments of interaction with community helpers and using communication strategies, with captions explaining these interactions. Additionally, they will contribute to a collaborative mural, depicting various community helpers and communication scenarios, complete with student-written descriptions. These projects will be showcased in the 'Safety and Communication Gallery' during the exhibition, highlighting their understanding and skills in asking for help and communicating effectively.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Community Adventure' where students embark on a guided exploration around the school. During this adventure, they will meet various community helpers, such as the school nurse, librarian, and custodian. Students will practice asking for help and information in different scenarios, using role-play and interactive storytelling to make the experience engaging and memorable.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Safety and Communication Gallery' showcasing their art projects, photos, and videos that illustrate scenarios of asking for help and sharing personal information. Community partners, including local police officers and community liaisons, will be invited to engage with students, discuss the exhibits, and provide feedback. The gallery will serve as a platform for students to demonstrate their communication skills and understanding of community roles, fostering a sense of connection and accomplishment.