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Plan
Week 1
Day 1
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Activities
Cultural Exchange Day - Immerse students in Medieval China through activities like calligraphy, traditional games, and storytelling to understand the cultural context of innovations. (45 min)
Introduction to Medieval Chinese Innovations - Explore key inventions such as the compass, paper money, water clock, printing press, and gunpowder through interactive group discussions and visual presentations. (20 min)
Research Project Selection - Students choose an invention to focus on, begin researching its historical significance and modern impact using a variety of sources. (25 min)
Research and Documentation - Continue gathering information on selected inventions, focusing on original purposes and historical context using primary and secondary sources. (30 min)
Design Concept Brainstorming - Develop initial ideas for designing models and presentations, sketching concepts and discussing potential materials and techniques. (15 min)
Hands-on Model Design - Begin creating physical or digital prototypes of selected inventions, applying design principles and engineering skills to replicate functionality. (25 min)
Multimedia Presentation Planning - Outline the multimedia presentation structure, including key historical impacts, evolution, and modern-day applications. (20 min)
Model Construction - Continue building the invention model using gathered materials, focusing on historical accuracy and creative presentation. (30 min)
Feedback Session - Engage in peer reviews to provide and receive constructive feedback on model designs and presentation plans. (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Participation in Cultural Exchange Day activities.
2. Completion of the 'Mystery Invention Challenge' worksheet.
3. Research notes and findings on selected Chinese inventions.
4. Selection of a Chinese invention for the project.
5. Initial design sketches and plans for the invention model.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for calligraphy and traditional Chinese games.
2. Prepare storytelling resources and scripts related to Medieval China.
3. Compile research materials, including books, articles, and online resources about Chinese inventions.
4. Develop clues and riddles for the 'Mystery Invention Challenge.'
5. Create a list of potential inventions for students to choose from, with brief descriptions of each.
Week 2
Day 6
Day 7
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10
Activities
Introduction to Medieval Chinese Inventions - Students explore various inventions from Medieval China using curated resources, selecting one to focus on for their project. Learning target: Understanding the historical significance of chosen inventions (45 min)
Research and Information Gathering - Students use primary and secondary sources to gather detailed information about their chosen invention, focusing on its original purpose and historical context. Learning target: Developing research skills and historical understanding (30 min)
Guided Group Discussion - Facilitate a group discussion where students share their findings and receive feedback from peers, enhancing collaborative learning. Learning target: Enhancing communication skills and peer learning (15 min)
Design and Planning Phase - Begin designing a model of the chosen invention, drawing initial sketches and planning materials needed. Learning target: Applying principles of design and engineering (25 min)
Coordinate Plane Activity - Students draw polygons related to their model design on the coordinate plane, applying mathematical standards to find dimensions. Learning target: Applying math skills to real-world problems (20 min)
Model Construction - Start constructing the physical or digital model, utilizing materials and techniques discussed in previous lessons. Learning target: Demonstrating engineering and design skills (45 min)
Critique and Revision Session - Host a peer review where students present their model progress and receive constructive feedback. Learning target: Enhancing self-directed learning through critique (30 min)
Reflection Activity - Facilitate a reflection session where students discuss their learning journey and how they are applying feedback to improve their models. Learning target: Building self-reflection skills (15 min)
Deliverables
1. Detailed research notes on the chosen invention’s historical context and significance.
2. A design blueprint or sketch for the chosen invention model.
3. Initial construction of the invention model with basic functionalities.
4. Draft multimedia presentation outlining the invention’s evolution and impact.
5. First cut or storyboard of a short film reenacting the invention process.
6. Feedback notes from mock presentation practice, highlighting areas for improvement.
7. Updated project journal reflecting self-assessment and peer feedback.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for creating models such as cardboard, clay, wood, paints, and markers.
2. Set up research stations with books, articles, and digital resources on Medieval China’s inventions for students to gather information.
3. Coordinate with local historians or experts to schedule a feedback session for students' projects.
4. Prepare multimedia tools like cameras and editing software for creating presentations and short films.
5. Organize a mock presentation space with appropriate seating and projection capabilities.
6. Print worksheets for students to plan their model designs and presentation outlines.
7. Invite local artisans or cultural experts for a hands-on workshop to demonstrate traditional Chinese crafting techniques.
Week 3
Day 11
Day 12
Day 13
Day 14
Day 15
Activities
Model Refinement and Enhancement - Students improve the accuracy and functionality of their invention models, incorporating feedback from peers and experts. (25 min)
Multimedia Presentation Development - Continue designing multimedia presentations, incorporating creative elements such as images, videos, and sound to enhance storytelling. (20 min)
Interactive Exhibit Planning - Plan and brainstorm ideas for interactive stations that will engage visitors during the Medieval China Innovation Fair. (20 min)
Historical Context Deep Dive - Investigate deeper into the cultural and historical significance of selected inventions, aligning findings with exhibit presentations. (25 min)
Mock Presentation and Feedback Session - Conduct a mock presentation of models and multimedia presentations to classmates, receiving constructive feedback on communication and persuasiveness. (45 min)
Final Model Adjustments - Implement feedback from the mock presentation to make final adjustments to models and presentations, ensuring historical accuracy and creativity. (30 min)
Exhibit Setup and Practice - Begin setting up the exhibition space for the Innovation Fair, practicing interactive activities and ensuring all elements are ready for display. (15 min)
Preparation for the 'Shark Tank' Event - Finalize pitches and practice delivery, focusing on clarity, confidence, and engaging storytelling for the upcoming event. (45 min)
Deliverables
1. Constructed model of a chosen Medieval Chinese invention, such as a compass, water clock, or printing press.
2. Draft of multimedia presentation highlighting the historical context and modern impact of the invention.
3. Completion of mock presentation with feedback incorporated for improvement.
4. Reflection journal entry discussing feedback received and revisions made to the project.
5. Self-assessment using provided rubric to evaluate the progress and areas for improvement.
6. List of historical and modern applications of the invention researched and compiled.
Preparation 1. Gather materials for model construction, including cardboard, clay, craft supplies, and digital tools for multimedia presentations.
2. Coordinate with local historians or experts to schedule feedback sessions for students' projects.
3. Prepare resources for mock presentation day, such as video recording equipment and feedback forms.
4. Create a rubric for assessing students' pitches during the mock presentation, focusing on historical accuracy, creativity, and communication skills.
5. Organize feedback sessions with peers and teachers for students to receive guidance on their model designs and presentations.
6. Set up workstations with necessary tools and materials for hands-on model building activities.
7. Ensure access to primary and secondary sources for continued research on Medieval China innovations.
Week 4
Day 16
Day 17
Day 18
Day 19
Day 20
Activities
Mock Presentation Day - Students practice their pitches in front of the class, focusing on communication skills and persuasiveness. Learning target: Enhancing presentation skills and receiving peer feedback (45 min)
Final Model Touch-ups - Students make last-minute adjustments and improvements to their models based on feedback received during mock presentations. Learning target: Applying critique and revision techniques to improve products (25 min)
Multimedia Presentation Finalization - Complete multimedia presentations, ensuring all historical impacts, evolution, and modern applications are thoroughly addressed. Learning target: Demonstrating command of presentation conventions (20 min)
Exhibition Setup - Prepare interactive stations for the Medieval China Innovation Fair, ensuring each exhibit effectively engages the audience. Learning target: Organizing and setting up engaging exhibitions (25 min)
Reflection Preparation - Students prepare reflection notes comparing initial understanding of innovations with final outcomes. Learning target: Developing self-reflection skills (20 min)
Medieval China Innovation Fair - Host the exhibition where students present models and pitches to classmates, teachers, and parents, engaging the audience through hands-on activities. Learning target: Demonstrating understanding and creativity in a public setting (45 min)
Gallery Walk and Reflection Day - Facilitate a gallery walk followed by a group discussion on socio-emotional skills developed throughout the project. Learning target: Reflecting on collaboration and communication skills (25 min)
Final Reflection Session - Students discuss the evolution of their perspectives and learning journey, considering the impact of Medieval China's innovations on their lives. Learning target: Building self-knowledge and awareness as learners (20 min)
Deliverables
1. Completed models of medieval Chinese inventions with detailed explanations of their historical significance and modern impact.
2. A polished multimedia presentation for each invention, ready for public display and critique.
3. Short film reenactments of the gunpowder invention, edited and prepared for screening during the event.
4. Finalized pitch presentations for the 'Shark Tank' event, incorporating feedback from practice sessions and expert critiques.
5. Reflection journals where students document their learning journey, including insights gained from peer and expert feedback.
6. Assessment forms completed by judges, providing feedback on innovation, presentation skills, and historical relevance.
Preparation 1. Organize the 'Shark Tank' style event by coordinating with community partners and local business leaders to act as judges.
2. Set up stations for the 'Medieval China Innovation Fair' with necessary presentation materials and interactive components.
3. Prepare feedback forms for judges and visitors to provide constructive insights on students' presentations.
4. Ensure all multimedia equipment (projectors, laptops, audio systems) is functional for presentations and short film screenings.
5. Arrange for cultural elements such as music and food for the 'Silk Road Celebration' to enrich the exhibition experience.
6. Provide materials for final model adjustments and practice sessions, including tools and craft supplies.