7th Grade  Project 4 weeks

Rock 'n' Roll: Exploring Earth's Perils!

Sarah F
NM.2.c
IM.8.b
7.MS-ETS3-1(MA)
S.1.b
RI.7.10
+ 5 more
1-pager

The Challenge

Frequent droughts and improper land management practices are degrading soil health, threatening agricultural productivity and ecological balance in Sheffield, MA. This challenge underscores the need for sustainable practices to ensure long-term food security and environmental resilience.
Challenge Question
How can we, as young environmental scientists, collaborate with local farmers and geoscientists to develop and implement sustainable land management practices that combat soil degradation and enhance drought resilience in Sheffield, MA?
Standards
  • [Massachusetts] NM.2.c - Ask highly predictable, formulaic questions.
  • [Massachusetts] IM.8.b - Become lifelong learners by: Setting goals for growth in these areas and reflecting upon progress.; Explaining language education requirements for careers of interest.; Interacting on a regular basis with speakers/signers of the target language to build diverse relationships.; Using languages for enjoyment and enrichment and accessing and evaluating further opportunities for doing so.
  • [Massachusetts] 7.MS-ETS3-1(MA) - Explain the function of a communication system and the role of its components, including a source, encoder, transmitter, receiver, decoder, and storage.
  • [Massachusetts] S.1.b - Evaluate the main message or story, its supporting details, and its underlying, and even subtle features and nuances.
  • [Massachusetts] RI.7.10 - Independently and proficiently read and comprehend literary nonfiction representing a variety of genres, cultures, and perspectives and exhibiting complexity appropriate for at least grade 7.
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.

Learning Partners and Clients

Students will collaborate with the University of Massachusetts Amherst's Department of Geosciences to engage in research on drought patterns and soil management in Sheffield, MA. They will also partner with local farmers to gain hands-on experience in assessing soil health and implementing effective land management strategies. These partnerships will provide students with real-world insights and practical skills to address soil degradation challenges.

Phase Outcomes

Phase Learning Outcome
Discover
I can identify the challenge of soil degradation and its root causes through hands-on activities with local farmers, sparking curiosity and conviction about addressing this real-world issue.
Examine
I can research the causes and effects of soil degradation by analyzing data on drought patterns and conducting soil health assessments with guidance from university experts.
Engineer
I can develop a land management strategy that incorporates sustainable practices to improve soil health and drought resilience, directly impacting the local farming community.
Do
I can implement my land management solution on a local plot, collecting data on its effectiveness in reducing soil degradation and improving resilience to drought conditions.
Share
I can share my solution and learning journey with community members and peers through an interactive presentation, reflecting on personal growth and the impact of our project.