The purpose of this project is to engage 5th-grade students in a hands-on exploration of their favorite literary genres through the creation of a video. By integrating storytelling techniques and critical reflection, students will deepen their understanding of how genres shape reading habits and personal identity. This project fosters collaboration with community partners, encourages self-directed learning, and culminates in an exhibition where students present their videos to younger peers, promoting literacy and effective communication skills.
Learning goals
Students will explore and articulate how different genres influence their reading preferences and habits. They will develop storytelling skills by creating a video in their favorite genre, focusing on voice, tone, and presentation. Through collaboration and feedback, students will refine their work, culminating in sharing their videos with younger students to inspire a love for reading. This project will also enhance their understanding of government systems and historical events by integrating these themes into their storytelling.
Standards
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.Civ.5.3-5 - Explain the origins, functions, and structure of different systems of government, including those created by the U.S. and state constitutions.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.His.14.3-5 - Explain probable causes and effects of events and developments.
[Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.L.5.1 - Demonstrate command of the conventions of standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
[Next Generation Science Standards] 3-5.AG.7.1 - Change is measured in terms of differences over time and may occur at different rates.
[National Council for the Social Studies] D2.His.17.3-5 - Summarize the central claim in a secondary work of history
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 create a storyboard outlining their favorite genre's storytelling elements, which will guide the production of a short video. The final product will be a compelling video that utilizes storytelling techniques to convey the essence of their chosen genre. This video will be shared with younger students to promote literacy and a love for reading. Throughout the project, students will engage in peer feedback sessions to refine their work, ensuring that the final presentation effectively communicates their understanding and creativity.
Launch
Kick off the project by organizing a "Genre Exploration Day" where students bring in their favorite books from various genres to share with the class. Begin with a group discussion about what makes each genre unique and how it influences their reading preferences. Then, introduce the essential questions and explain how they will be creating their own videos using storytelling techniques. This shared experience will ignite excitement and set the stage for the project, encouraging students to think critically about their reading habits and the power of storytelling.
Exhibition
Students will present their favorite genre videos to the entire class, creating a shared exhibition space where each student can showcase their work. The exhibition will include a viewing session where younger students are invited to watch the videos, fostering a community-wide celebration of literacy and storytelling. This event will also provide an opportunity for students to receive feedback from peers, teachers, and younger viewers, encouraging reflection and further development of their communication skills.
