All grades  Project 4 weeks

Adventures of the Americas: Theme Park Edition!

ROSINA G
CCSS.Math.Content.4.OA.B.4
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.2
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.4.4
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.1.4
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.1.2
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project is to engage students in an immersive exploration of Mesoamerican cultures through the creative design of a theme park. By integrating historical research, hands-on model construction, and cultural storytelling, students will develop a deeper understanding of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan achievements. This experience fosters collaborative learning, critical thinking, and self-directed exploration, culminating in a community exhibition that showcases their work and celebrates the rich heritage of these ancient civilizations.

Learning goals

Students will develop a deep understanding of Mesoamerican cultures by researching and representing the historical achievements and stories of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan leaders through theme park attractions. They will enhance their mathematical skills by applying geometry and spatial reasoning to design theme park layouts, while also exploring the cultural significance of traditional Mesoamerican foods through hands-on culinary activities. Additionally, students will refine their communication and collaboration skills by presenting their work during the 'Mesoamerican Cultural Carnival' and engaging with community partners to deepen their learning experience.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.Math.Content.4.OA.B.4 - Find all factor pairs for a whole number in the range 1—100. Recognize that a whole number is a multiple of each of its factors. Determine whether a given whole number in the range 1—100 is a multiple of a given one-digit number. Determine whether a given whole number in the range 1—100 is prime or composite.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.2 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English capitalization, punctuation, and spelling when writing.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.4.4 - Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.1.4 - Read with sufficient accuracy and fluency to support comprehension.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RF.1.2 - Demonstrate understanding of spoken words, syllables, and sounds (phonemes).
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.

Products

Students will design and construct scale models of theme park attractions that showcase the historical events and achievements of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan cultures. They will organize a tasting event featuring traditional Mesoamerican foods, complete with informational displays about each dish's cultural significance. Additionally, students will build a life-sized interactive game area for traditional Mesoamerican games, providing rules and historical context. Each student will compile a digital portfolio that includes sketches, blueprints, and narratives linking their designs to Mesoamerican stories and achievements.

Launch

Kick off the project with an immersive 'Time Travel Theme Park Tour' where students enter a transformed classroom, decorated with Mesoamerican artifacts and visuals. Introduce the theme park concept through a gallery walk of miniature models representing different Mesoamerican leaders and landmarks, designed by the students. Conclude the launch with a 'Chocolate History Extravaganza,' where students participate in interactive stations exploring the history of cacao in Mesoamerican cultures, including chocolate tasting and storytelling sessions.

Exhibition

Students will transform the school gymnasium into a vibrant 'Mesoamerican Cultural Carnival,' where they will present their theme park designs and carnival games through interactive booths. Each booth will feature detailed models of attractions, accompanied by student-led storytelling sessions that highlight the historical narratives of Mayan, Aztec, and Incan leaders. Visitors can engage in traditional Mesoamerican games, such as Lotería, and enjoy a 'Taste of Tradition' food festival, where students serve and explain the significance of authentic dishes. The event will also include a 'Chocolate Chronicles' station, where students demonstrate the preparation of chocolate and its cultural importance, creating an immersive and educational experience for all attendees.
Copied from MesoAdventure: Ride Through Ancient Cultures!