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7th Grade  Lesson 50 minutes

Blueprint Bonanza: Design a Memorial!

Diana M
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.5
6.6.3
K-2.DA.9
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Students will engage in a hands-on project to design a memorial that captures the essence of their community's values and history. Through research, collaboration with community partners, and creative expression, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. This project encourages self-directed learning, allowing students to reflect on their identity and sense of belonging while connecting with their community's past.

Learning goals

Students will develop their writing skills by planning, revising, and editing their memorial designs, ensuring they effectively communicate community values and historical narratives. They will gain a deeper understanding of Confucianism and Taoism by exploring how these philosophies can influence memorial design. Additionally, students will identify and describe patterns in historical data to make informed predictions about design elements that resonate with the community. Through self-directed learning and critical reflection, students will enhance their academic mindset and problem-solving skills, fostering a strong sense of identity and belonging within their community.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.CCRA.W.5 - Develop and strengthen writing as needed by planning, revising, editing, rewriting, or trying a new approach.
  • [California] 6.6.3 - Know about the life of Confucius and the fundamental teachings of Confucianism and Taoism.
  • [California] K-2.DA.9 - Identify and describe patterns in data visualizations, such as charts or graphs, to make predictions.
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 detailed blueprint designs of their memorials, incorporating historical elements and community values. They will develop digital 3D renderings with interactive features for viewers to explore during the community exhibition. Additionally, students will craft reflective captions for their designs, explaining the significance of their memorials in relation to the community's history and values.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Community History Scavenger Hunt,' where students explore various local landmarks and historical sites. They will gather inspiration and insights by observing architectural styles, reading plaques, and speaking with community members. This immersive experience will provide students with a foundational understanding of their community's history and values, which they will later incorporate into their memorial designs.

Exhibition

Students will participate in a 'Blueprints to Reality' showcase at the local library, where they will display their memorial designs alongside historical artifacts and narratives from the community's past. This exhibition will feature a narrative journey that connects each memorial design to significant local events and figures, fostering a deeper understanding of community history. Attendees can interact with digital 3D renderings of the memorials, exploring the thoughtful integration of historical elements and community values in each design.