10th Grade  Lesson 30 minutes

Alien PB&J Adventure Instructions

Kate M
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.9-10.2
Self Directed Learning
Academic Mindset
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
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Purpose

Students will engage in a hands-on writing exercise to create detailed instructions for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, tailored for an alien unfamiliar with human customs. This activity encourages students to think critically about clarity in communication and anticipate potential misunderstandings. Through peer feedback and self-reflection, students will refine their instructions to ensure they are comprehensive and foolproof, culminating in a practical demonstration where they make and enjoy the sandwiches based on their peers' directions.

Learning goals

Students will develop their ability to write clear, detailed instructions by crafting a step-by-step guide to making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for an alien unfamiliar with human customs. They will engage in self-reflection and peer feedback to refine their communication skills, ensuring their instructions are precise and understandable. Through this exercise, students will enhance their critical thinking by anticipating potential misunderstandings and problem-solving to create foolproof directions.
Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.WHST.9-10.2 - Write informative/explanatory texts, including the narration of historical events, scientific procedures/experiments, or technical processes.
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.

Products

Students will create a detailed, step-by-step instruction guide for making a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, tailored for an alien unfamiliar with human customs. They will then collaborate in small groups to test the clarity of their instructions by having peers attempt to make the sandwich strictly following the written directions. Finally, students will engage in a reflective discussion to evaluate the effectiveness of their instructions, identifying areas for improvement and celebrating successful communication strategies.

Launch

Begin with a brief, engaging scenario where students imagine they are ambassadors to an alien civilization. Present a short video clip or image of an alien landscape to spark curiosity. Prompt students to discuss in pairs how they might explain a simple human activity, like making a sandwich, to an alien. Encourage them to consider the alien's lack of knowledge about Earthly customs and ingredients, setting the stage for the writing task.

Exhibition

Students will pair up and exchange their written instructions, then attempt to make a peanut butter and jelly sandwich following their partner's directions exactly. After completing the task, each pair will share their experiences with the class, discussing any challenges or humorous moments encountered. This activity will culminate in a class discussion on effective communication strategies, highlighting the importance of clarity and precision in writing instructions.