5th Grade  Project 2 weeks

"Prism Power: Volume Adventures!"

Ruth B
CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.5
CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.3
CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.4
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
1-pager

Purpose

The purpose of this project is to immerse students in a hands-on, collaborative learning experience where they apply mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems. By designing virtual museum exhibits, students will explore the properties of volume and spatial arrangement, fostering critical thinking and creativity. This project encourages students to take ownership of their learning through self-reflection and peer feedback while building a sense of identity and belonging within their classroom community.

Learning goals

Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of volume as an attribute of solid figures, specifically focusing on rectangular prisms, through hands-on creation and digital modeling. They will apply mathematical operations of multiplication and addition to solve real-world problems involving volume, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, students will cultivate self-directed learning by reflecting on peer feedback and their own experiences to refine their museum exhibits, fostering a sense of identity and belonging within the classroom community.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.5 - Relate volume to the operations of multiplication and addition and solve real world and mathematical problems involving volume.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.3 - Recognize volume as an attribute of solid figures and understand concepts of volume measurement.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.5.MD.C.4 - Measure volumes by counting unit cubes, using cubic cm, cubic in, cubic ft, and improvised units.
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 project, students will create 3D models of rectangular prisms to design their virtual museum exhibits. By the end, each student will have developed a digital portfolio that includes their exhibit designs, calculations, and reflections on their learning process. The final product will be a virtual museum where visitors can navigate through the exhibits online, showcasing the students' understanding of volume and their creative display solutions.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Mystery Artifact Challenge,' where each student receives a unique object and collaborates with peers to brainstorm creative ways to display it using rectangular prisms. This activity encourages students to think critically about volume and design while fostering teamwork and excitement for the upcoming project. The challenge sets the stage for exploration and innovation, as students consider various approaches to effectively showcase their artifacts in a virtual museum setting.

Exhibition

Students will host a 'Gallery Walk' in the classroom, where they will set up their virtual museum exhibits for school staff and peers from other grades to explore. Visitors can interact with the displays, ask questions, and learn from the students about their design process and mathematical concepts applied. This exhibition provides an opportunity for students to showcase their creativity and problem-solving skills while receiving feedback and engaging in meaningful discussions about their work.
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