7th Grade  Lesson 90 minutes

London Adventure: A Day to Remember!

Ariane M
MS-LS2-4
DA:Cn10.1.7.a
6-8.AF.4.2
Content Expertise
Collaboration
1-pager

Purpose

Students will immerse themselves in a simulated day in London, enhancing their communication and navigation skills by engaging in role-playing activities. They will collaboratively plan their journey, utilizing maps and public transportation, and document their experiences in a travel blog. This hands-on project fosters real-world problem-solving, leadership, and teamwork, while also meeting science and arts standards through exploration of ecosystem changes and dance movement characteristics.

Learning goals

Students will develop effective communication skills by engaging in role-playing activities that simulate real-world interactions in a foreign city. They will enhance their ability to navigate using maps and public transportation systems, applying problem-solving skills to overcome challenges. Through collaboration, students will co-design a travel plan, fostering teamwork and leadership. By documenting their experiences in a travel blog, students will practice reflective writing and critical thinking, assessing their learning and personal growth.
Standards
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] MS-LS2-4 - Construct an argument supported by empirical evidence that changes to physical or biological components of an ecosystem affect populations.
  • [National Core Arts Standards] DA:Cn10.1.7.a - Compare and contrast the movement characteristics or qualities found in a variety of dance genres. Discuss how the movement characteristics or qualities differ from one’s own movement characteristics or qualities and how different perspectives are communicated.
  • [Next Generation Science Standards] 6-8.AF.4.2 - Use graphical displays (e.g., maps, charts, graphs, and/or tables) of large data sets to identify temporal and spatial relationships.
Competencies
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a travel blog that includes a detailed day plan for exploring London. This blog will feature photos, maps, and descriptions of landmarks visited, along with reflections on their navigation and communication strategies. Each group will document their experiences, showcasing their ability to plan, adapt, and work together effectively in a foreign city setting.

Launch

Begin the lesson with an interactive virtual tour of London using a digital platform like Google Earth. Encourage students to explore iconic landmarks, such as the Tower of London and Buckingham Palace, while discussing their historical and cultural significance. This immersive experience will set the stage for their role-playing activity and help them visualize the city's layout, sparking curiosity and excitement for the day's project.

Exhibition

Students will host a "Day in London" exhibition where they present their travel blogs and day plans to classmates, teachers, and invited guests. Each group will set up a booth showcasing their travel experiences, complete with photos, maps, and multimedia elements. Attendees can interact with the students, asking questions about their navigation strategies and the cultural insights gained. This exhibition will culminate in a group reflection session, allowing students to share their learning journey and receive feedback from the audience.