Water Warriors: Durango's Global Splash

Plan

7th Grade Project 4 weeks

Water Warriors: Durango's Global Splash

Mary M

7.4.1

7.3.4

7.3.3

7.3.2

7.3.1

+ 10 more

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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to engage 7th-grade students in Durango in a project-based exploration of water management, focusing on local and global issues. Students will develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills by researching water scarcity, designing sustainable solutions, and collaborating with community partners. They will synthesize their findings into various formats, such as digital maps, podcasts, and interactive exhibits, to educate and inspire their community and beyond. Through this process, students will cultivate a sense of responsibility and belonging, enhancing their academic mindset and effective communication abilities.

Learning goals

Students will develop research skills by posing questions and synthesizing information from credible sources to address water scarcity issues. They will enhance their writing abilities through drafting, revising, and presenting proposals and narratives that are clear, coherent, and tailored to their audience. Students will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by designing innovative solutions for water conservation and sharing these strategies through various media. They will practice effective communication by collaborating with peers and community partners, and by presenting their findings in public forums. Additionally, students will cultivate self-directed learning and an academic mindset by reflecting on their learning journey and understanding their role in community advocacy.

Standards

[Colorado] 7.4.1 - Pose research questions, synthesize answers from multiple credible sources, and present conclusions in an appropriate format.
[Colorado] 7.3.4 - Plan, draft, edit, and revise as needed to ensure that writing is clear and coherent, that it conforms to standard conventions for grammar, usage, and mechanics, and that its style is appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
[Colorado] 7.3.3 - Write engaging real or imagined narratives effectively using techniques such as relevant description, sensory language, dialogue, and logical pacing to capture the action and detail experiences and events.
[Colorado] 7.3.2 - Write well-developed informative/explanatory texts using logical organizational strategies, relevant supporting information, domain-specific vocabulary, and formal style.
[Colorado] 7.3.1 - Write well-organized arguments using logical reasoning, relevant and credible evidence, acknowledgement of opposing claims, clear language, and formal style.
[Colorado] 7.2.3 - Apply knowledge of word relationships, word structures, and sentence structures to determine the meaning of new words in increasingly complex texts.
[Colorado] 7.2.2 - Summarize and evaluate to show understanding of informational texts.
[Colorado] 7.2.1 - Analyze the connections between interrelated literary elements to understand literary texts.
[Colorado] 7.1.2 - Prepare for formal presentations and use appropriate delivery techniques.
[Colorado] 7.1.1 - Incorporate language, tools, and techniques appropriate for task and audience during formal presentations.

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 functional water filters and design a rainwater harvesting system for the school, documenting their process and its impact on water conservation. They will develop a digital interactive map showcasing local water sources and conservation efforts, accessible to the community and beyond. Additionally, students will produce a podcast series exploring global water issues and local solutions, featuring their research and interviews with community partners. They will also organize a community water conservation workshop to teach practical water-saving techniques and distribute DIY kits. Finally, students will present their findings and proposals at a 'Water Conservation Fair' through interactive exhibits.

Launch

Begin the project with a 'Water Walk' simulation, where students experience the challenges faced by communities worldwide in accessing clean water. This immersive activity will be followed by a 'Water Stories Workshop,' where students share personal narratives about their own experiences with water. These activities will set the stage for empathy and understanding, sparking curiosity and motivating students to explore sustainable water solutions for their community.

Exhibition

Students will organize a 'Water Conservation Fair' where they present their projects, including water filters, rainwater harvesting systems, and digital interactive maps, to community members. This event will feature interactive exhibits, allowing attendees to engage with the students' work and learn about sustainable water practices. Additionally, students will host a 'Water Wisdom Gallery Walk,' displaying their posters, articles, and multimedia presentations in a public space, fostering community awareness and dialogue on water management.