10th, 11th, 12th Grades  Project 6 weeks

Rev Up Learning: Drive Your Future

Ben T
HS-ETS1-2
HS-ETS1-2
HS-ETS1-3
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

Students will engage in a hands-on, interdisciplinary project that integrates math, science, ELA, and social studies to address real-world automotive challenges. By collaborating with professionals and community members, students will develop practical skills in car repair, financial literacy, and customer communication. This experience aims to deepen students' understanding of the automotive industry while fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and self-directed learning. Through this project, students will gain insights into small business operations and explore potential career paths in the automotive field.

Learning goals

Students will integrate mathematical skills to manage financial aspects of car repair and small business operations, applying basic financial literacy and accounting principles. They will develop effective communication skills through customer service interactions and persuasive presentations. Scientific understanding of automobile mechanics will be deepened as they diagnose and repair vehicles. Additionally, students will explore microeconomic concepts related to small business ownership, evaluating the economic viability and impact of their repair solutions. Throughout the project, students will engage in self-directed learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving, fostering a strong academic mindset and sense of community belonging.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ETS1-2 - Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ETS1-2 - Design a solution to a complex real-world problem by breaking it down into smaller, more manageable problems that can be solved through engineering.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] HS-ETS1-3 - Evaluate a solution to a complex real-world problem based on prioritized criteria and trade-offs that account for a range of constraints, including cost, safety, reliability, and aesthetics, as well as possible social, cultural, and environmental impacts.
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 collaboratively design and implement a hands-on automotive repair day, where they will diagnose and repair vehicles from community members under the guidance of professional mechanics. Throughout the project, students will create detailed business plans that incorporate financial, scientific, and communicative elements learned during the unit. They will also conduct and document interviews with industry professionals to enhance their understanding and present their findings and experiences to peers and community partners. Daily reflections will be captured through exit tickets, allowing students to track their growth and understanding over the course of the project.

Launch

Kick off the project by inviting a local mechanic from J&J Mobile Mechanics to bring in a car with a mechanical issue. Facilitate a hands-on exploration where students collaboratively investigate the problem, brainstorm potential solutions, and discuss the economic implications of different repair options. This immersive experience will set the stage for students to connect academic concepts with real-world automotive challenges, sparking curiosity and engagement from the outset.

Exhibition

Students will host a community car repair day, where they will collaborate with J&J Mobile Mechanics to diagnose and repair vehicles for local residents. This event will serve as a platform for students to demonstrate their integrated skills in math, science, ELA, and social studies, while engaging directly with community members. Students will present their business plans and share insights from their professional consultations, showcasing their ability to apply academic content to real-world automotive challenges.