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High School Grade  Project 4 weeks

Constitution Quest: Civics Challenge!

Nicole M
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.10
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

Students will engage in a hands-on civics project where they explore the Constitution's impact on contemporary society, connecting historical principles to current civic issues within their communities. By collaborating with local organizations in Salem and Boston, students will identify and address real-world challenges, fostering a deeper understanding of their role as active citizens. Through reflective writing and public exhibitions, students will develop literacy skills and critical thinking, while showcasing their learning to peers, educators, and community partners.

Learning goals

Students will explore the foundational principles of the U.S. Constitution and its relevance to contemporary civic issues, enhancing their critical thinking and problem-solving skills. They will engage with community partners in Salem and Boston to understand real-world applications of constitutional principles, fostering a sense of identity and belonging. Through reflective writing and peer feedback, students will develop self-directed learning habits and improve their literacy skills. The project will culminate in an exhibition where students present their findings and insights, demonstrating effective communication and content expertise.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.9-10.10 - By the end of grade 10, read and comprehend history/social studies texts in the grades 9—10 text complexity band independently and proficiently.
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 collaboratively create a multimedia presentation that explores a specific aspect of the Constitution or a civic issue relevant to their community. They will conduct interviews with community partners in Salem or Boston, integrating these insights into their presentations. Throughout the project, students will maintain reflective journals to document their learning process and self-assess their progress. The final presentations will be exhibited to the school administration and community partners, showcasing their research, critical thinking, and communication skills.

Launch

Kick off the unit with a field trip to the Massachusetts State House in Boston, where students can engage with legislators and learn about the legislative process firsthand. Follow this with a collaborative session with a local historian or civic leader from Salem, either in-person or via a virtual meeting, to discuss the historical and contemporary significance of the Constitution. This immersive experience will set the stage for students to explore their own roles in civic life, encouraging them to reflect on their identities and the impact of governance in their communities.

Exhibition

Students will host a "Constitutional Convention Reimagined" exhibition, where they present their projects addressing contemporary issues through the lens of constitutional principles. They will collaborate with local historians and civic leaders from Salem and Boston to gain insights and feedback, which will be incorporated into their presentations. The exhibition will feature interactive displays, speeches, and panel discussions, with students taking on roles as constitutional delegates. High school administrators and community partners will be invited to engage in discussions and provide feedback, fostering an authentic audience for student work.