High School Grade  Project 4 weeks

The Bridge Chronicles: Curiosity Unleashed

David G
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.1
CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-Q.A.3
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.10
CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-REI.C.5
CCSS.Math.Practice.MP1
+ 5 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in creating a documentary that explores the theme of "bridging the gap" within their community. Through this hands-on learning experience, students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by addressing real-world issues, while honing their content expertise in filmmaking and effective communication. By collaborating with community partners and participating in a film festival, students will cultivate self-directed learning and an academic mindset, ultimately producing a documentary that inspires curiosity and prompts viewers to consider change.

Learning goals

Students will develop their ability to create compelling documentary films that explore the theme of "bridging the gap" by engaging with community partners, analyzing and presenting complex issues. They will enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving skills by crafting narratives that inspire curiosity and provoke thought about change within their community. Through the filmmaking process, students will refine their communication skills, receiving and incorporating feedback to produce a polished final product. They will also cultivate self-directed learning by reflecting on their progress and making informed decisions to improve their work.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-CED.A.1 - Create equations and inequalities in one variable and use them to solve problems. Include equations arising from linear and quadratic functions, and simple rational and exponential functions.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSN-Q.A.3 - Choose a level of accuracy appropriate to limitations on measurement when reporting quantities.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.11-12.10 - By the end of grade 11, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, in the grades 11—CCR text complexity band proficiently, with scaffolding as needed at the high end of the range.<br />By the end of grade 12, read and comprehend literature, including stories, dramas, and poems, at the high end of the grades 11—CCR text complexity band independently and proficiently.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSA-REI.C.5 - Prove that, given a system of two equations in two variables, replacing one equation by the sum of that equation and a multiple of the other produces a system with the same solutions.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Practice.MP1 - Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them.
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.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.

Products

Students will create a documentary film that creatively explores the theme of "bridging the gap" by highlighting a community issue or change. Throughout the project, students will produce a series of rough cuts, receiving feedback from peers, teachers, and community partners to refine their storytelling and technical skills. The final product will be showcased at a film festival, where students will present their work and engage in discussions about their creative process and the impact of their documentaries.

Launch

Kick off the project by inviting a local filmmaker to share their experiences and insights on documentary storytelling, focusing on the theme of "bridging the gap." Facilitate an interactive Q&A session where students can explore how filmmakers use their craft to inspire curiosity and provoke thought. This launch will set the stage for students to begin their own journey of discovering and portraying compelling narratives within their communities.

Exhibition

Host a film festival celebration and competition where students showcase their documentary films to peers, teachers, community members, and local filmmakers. Each documentary should be presented with a brief introduction by the student team, highlighting their inspiration and the change they wish to see. Encourage audience interaction through a Q&A session, allowing students to reflect on their learning journey and receive constructive feedback. Celebrate creativity and communication by awarding categories such as "Most Compelling Story," "Best Use of Media," and "Audience Choice." This exhibition not only honors student achievements but also fosters a sense of community engagement and dialogue around the theme of "bridging the gap."