The purpose of this project is to engage 3rd-grade students in designing a magazine that reflects their interests while integrating key social studies and arts standards. Through hands-on activities, students will explore the role of money, historical sources, and collaboration, while examining emotional connections in drama. This real-world project encourages self-directed learning, critical thinking, and creativity, fostering a deeper understanding of community dynamics and environmental impacts.
Learning goals
Students will develop informative writing skills by creating content for a magazine that reflects their interests and community insights. They will learn to use historical sources to explain events and connect emotionally to the topics they choose. Students will explore the role of money in exchanges and analyze the impact of environmental and technological events on human settlements. Through collaboration and feedback, they will enhance self-directed learning competencies, focusing on peer and teacher feedback to refine their work.
Standards
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Eco.5.3-5 - Explain the role of money in making exchange easier
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.His.9.3-5 - Summarize how different kinds of historical sources are used to explain events in the past.
[National Core Arts Standards] TH:Re8.3.c - Examine how connections are made between oneself and a character’s emotions in drama/theatre work.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.6.3-5 - Describe ways in which people benefit from and are challenged by working together, including through government, workplaces, voluntary organizations, and families.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Geo.9.3-5 - Analyze the effects of catastrophic environmental and technological events on human settlements and migration.
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.
Products
Students will collaboratively design and produce a 'Kids' magazine that showcases topics they are passionate about. Throughout the project, they will engage in informative writing, incorporating historical sources and personal reflections. The final product will be a printed or digital magazine, featuring articles, illustrations, and creative layouts that reflect their interests and community insights. Each student will contribute to the magazine, ensuring a diverse range of perspectives and ideas.
Launch
Kick off the project with a 'Magazine Brainstorm Bonanza' where students dive into various magazines, discussing their favorite topics and brainstorming ideas for their own magazine. Encourage them to consider how these topics relate to their lives and community, fostering connections with real-world issues. This dynamic session sets the stage for students to explore their interests, sparking creativity and collaboration right from the start.
Exhibition
Students will showcase their magazines in a 'Kid Magazine Expo' where they present their work to classmates and invited guests, such as family members or community partners. Each student will have a booth to display their magazine and engage visitors by explaining their topics, historical sources, and emotional connections. This interactive exhibition encourages dialogue and feedback, fostering a sense of accomplishment and community involvement.
