Timeless Tales: Dickens' Echo Through Eras

Plan

11th, 12th Grades Project 3 weeks

Timeless Tales: Dickens' Echo Through Eras

Hillary M

CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-SRT.D.9

Self Directed Learning

Academic Mindset

Critical Thinking & Problem Solving

+ 2 more

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Purpose

This project aims to deepen students' understanding of timeless storytelling by exploring "A Christmas Carol" through a modern lens, encouraging them to create narratives that resonate with contemporary issues. By engaging with community partners and participating in creative workshops, students will develop critical thinking, effective communication, and self-directed learning skills. The project fosters personal reflection and connection to the story's themes, culminating in a public exhibition where students share their retellings, highlighting the enduring impact of storytelling in society.

Learning goals

Students will analyze and apply storytelling techniques from 'A Christmas Carol' to create a modern narrative that addresses contemporary issues within their school community. They will develop skills in critical thinking and problem-solving by drawing parallels between historical and current societal challenges. Through collaboration with community partners, students will enhance their understanding of the Victorian era and its relevance today, while honing their effective communication skills through peer reviews and public presentations. Students will engage in self-directed learning by reflecting on personal experiences, receiving feedback, and revising their narratives to ensure authenticity and impact.

Standards

[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-SRT.D.9 - (+) Derive the formula A = 1/2 ab sin(C) for the area of a triangle by drawing an auxiliary line from a vertex perpendicular to the opposite side.
[Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.HSG-SRT.D.9 - (+) Derive the formula A = 1/2 ab sin(C) for the area of a triangle by drawing an auxiliary line from a vertex perpendicular to the opposite side.

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 graphic novel or comic strip adaptation of 'A Christmas Carol' set in a contemporary school environment, addressing current student challenges. Additionally, they will perform a live theatrical rendition of their modernized versions, integrating multimedia elements to enhance audience engagement. These products will be showcased in a gallery exhibition and live performance event, fostering dialogue on the enduring impact of storytelling.

Launch

Kick off the project with a 'Ghosts of Our School' creative workshop where students brainstorm and sketch ideas for their modern retelling of 'A Christmas Carol'. Encourage them to identify pressing issues within their school community that resonate with the themes of the original story. Facilitate small group discussions to explore how these issues can be woven into a narrative, setting the stage for meaningful storytelling.

Exhibition

Students will host a storytelling festival at the local library, where they will present their modern retellings of 'A Christmas Carol' through various formats such as graphic novels, comic strips, or live performances. This event will invite peers, teachers, community members, and local elementary/middle school students to engage with the narratives and participate in discussions about the relevance of storytelling in addressing contemporary issues. Additionally, an art gallery at the school will display students' visual adaptations, offering an immersive experience that highlights their creative interpretations and the enduring impact of Dickens' classic tale.