10th Grade  Project 6 weeks

North End Quest: Uncovering Boston's Past

Kaitlyn M
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.7
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 2 more
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Purpose

Students will embark on an immersive research journey to explore the historical and cultural significance of Boston's North End, culminating in the creation of a multimedia digital storytelling platform. By engaging with primary and secondary sources, collaborating with the North End Historical Society, and integrating oral histories and family recipes, students will develop critical research and writing skills. This project will foster a sense of identity and belonging, encouraging students to connect with their community and preserve cultural heritage through innovative storytelling.

Learning goals

Students will conduct in-depth research on the North End's historical and cultural significance, developing skills in sourcing credible primary and secondary artifacts. They will synthesize information from multiple sources, integrating quotes and details to support their findings. Through writing a structured research paper and creating a multimedia Google Site, students will enhance their communication skills by presenting their research in a compelling format. Collaboration with peers and community partners will foster critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, enabling students to create a digital storytelling platform that preserves and shares cultural narratives.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.W.9-10.7 - Conduct short as well as more sustained research projects to answer a question (including a self-generated question) or solve a problem; narrow or broaden the inquiry when appropriate; synthesize multiple sources on the subject, demonstrating understanding of the subject under investigation.
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.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will collaboratively develop a multimedia digital storytelling platform using Google Sites, featuring North End family recipes and oral histories. They will conduct and synthesize research into a 5-paragraph paper, incorporating credible primary and secondary sources. The final product will include integrated quotes and artifacts, showcasing their understanding of the North End's cultural identity. Throughout the project, students will engage with community partners, such as the North End Historical Society, to enrich their narratives with authentic historical insights.

Launch

Begin the project with an immersive walking tour of the North End, guided by a local historian from the North End Historical Society. During the tour, students will engage in interactive discussions about the area's historical landmarks and cultural evolution, capturing observations and questions in a digital journal. Following the tour, students will participate in a hands-on workshop where they interview local residents and collect oral histories, setting the stage for their research and digital storytelling project.

Exhibition

Students will host a "North End Heritage Festival" where they present their Google sites and research papers to peers, family members, and community partners, including the North End Historical Society. The exhibition will feature digital storytelling presentations, showcasing multimedia elements such as videos, audio clips of oral histories, and interactive recipe demonstrations. Attendees will engage in discussions with students about the significance of preserving cultural identities and food traditions, fostering a deeper community connection and appreciation for the North End's rich history.