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7th Grade  Project 3 weeks

Compass Quest: 7th Grade Orienteering Adventure

grace b
D2.Geo.3.6-8
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Content Expertise
+ 1 more
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Purpose

This project aims to immerse 7th-grade students in the practical application of orienteering skills, fostering a deeper understanding of spatial navigation without modern technology. By designing and mapping an orienteering course around their school, students will engage in hands-on learning that enhances their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. The experience will cultivate a sense of place and belonging, encouraging students to reflect on their identity within their community while developing essential competencies in communication and content expertise.

Learning goals

Students will develop proficiency in using a compass to navigate and map spatial patterns, enhancing their understanding of geographic concepts. They will engage in critical thinking and problem-solving by designing an orienteering course, applying innovative approaches to address real-world navigation challenges. Through self-directed learning, students will reflect on their progress and adapt their strategies based on feedback. Effective communication skills will be honed as they present their course and share insights during the Orienteering Open Day. This project aims to foster a strong sense of place and identity, encouraging students to connect with and appreciate their local environment.
Standards
  • [National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Geo.3.6-8 - Use paper based and electronic mapping and graphing techniques to represent and analyze spatial patterns of different environmental and cultural characteristics.
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 collaboratively design and map out an orienteering course around the school campus, starting at the OEC entrance and featuring at least 10 stops. They will craft wood plaques, using wood burning techniques, to mark paces and compass degrees at each stop along the course. Additionally, students will create a video presentation to showcase their course, detailing the design process, challenges encountered, and the application of compass skills.

Launch

To kick off the project, students will participate in a 'Skills in Action' day where they engage in hands-on challenges to hone their compass skills. They'll navigate to specific points around the campus, building confidence and familiarity with orienteering techniques. This immersive experience sets the stage for designing their own course, fostering a sense of place and belonging while sparking curiosity about traditional navigation methods.

Exhibition

Students will host an 'Orienteering Open Day,' where they guide parents and community members through the orienteering course they designed. Participants will experience navigation challenges firsthand, providing an opportunity for students to demonstrate their compass skills and course design. This exhibition will allow students to share their learning journey and engage with the community, fostering a sense of accomplishment and connection.