This project-based learning experience is designed to foster critical self-reflection, effective communication, and community engagement through the lens of speech and debate. Students will explore their personal growth and the impact of team dynamics by selecting a creative medium to express their insights and experiences. The project encourages students to apply their skills in real-world contexts, promoting deeper understanding and personal development. Through this process, students will identify and articulate the influences that have shaped their journey, enhancing their sense of identity and belonging within the competitive arena.
Learning goals
Students will engage in self-reflection to analyze their personal growth as competitors, considering the influences of their team and experiences throughout the season. They will develop effective communication skills by choosing a project that best represents their learning, such as a presentation, reflective paper, or recruitment video. Through this process, students will enhance their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities by exploring innovative approaches to their learning and performance. Additionally, they will cultivate an academic mindset by establishing a sense of identity and belonging within the speech and debate community.
Standards
[Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.SL.9-10.1 - Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 9—10 topics, texts, and issues, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
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 choose from four final products to showcase their learning and growth: a 7-minute presentation on a personal passion, a 2-page reflective paper on their speech and debate season, a 2-page reflection on the impact of hosting a workshop, or a 2-3 minute recruitment video for the speech and debate team. Throughout the project, students will engage in self-reflection and peer feedback to refine their work. Each product will require students to effectively communicate their experiences, insights, and personal development, aligning with the project's essential questions and competencies.
Launch
Kick off the project with a dynamic speech and debate showcase where students can present past speeches or debates to their peers. This event will serve as an opportunity for students to reflect on their previous performances and gather feedback from their peers and teachers. Following the showcase, facilitate a guided discussion where students identify key influences and moments from the season that shaped their growth. This activity will set the stage for deeper self-reflection and exploration throughout the project.
Exhibition
At the conclusion of the project, students will present their chosen product in a school-wide exhibition event. This event will feature a gallery walk where students display their reflective papers, recruitment videos, and presentations. Peers, teachers, and community members will engage with students, offering feedback and discussing the insights gained throughout the speech and debate season. This interactive exhibition will foster a collaborative environment, encouraging students to articulate their growth and the influences that shaped their journey.
