The purpose of this project is for students to gain a real-world understanding of scientific principles by designing greenhouse prototypes that address local food access needs. Through experiential learning, students will develop critical skills in scientific inquiry, collaboration, and self-advocacy. By engaging directly with their community and iterating on their designs, students will apply theoretical concepts to create tangible solutions, all while reflecting on their growth both academically and socio-emotionally.

Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of photosynthesis and heat transfer principles by designing and testing greenhouse prototypes tailored to community food access needs. They will hone their self-advocacy skills by identifying local allies and engaging with community members to gather insights and feedback. Furthermore, students will sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills through collaborative peer reviews and continuous reflection, fostering both academic progress and socio-emotional development.

Students will create a comprehensive engineering research poster that highlights their greenhouse prototypes, efficacy test outcomes, and proposed site. They will produce a documentary video that chronicles the prototype development journey, featuring interviews and community interactions. Furthermore, students will generate a multimedia presentation that elaborates on the scientific principles and community significance of their designs, which will be shared at the Sustainable Showcase.

Kick off the unit by organizing a 'Community Needs Exploration Day', during which students actively engage in interviewing local residents and community leaders. The goal is to identify specific food access needs and discuss potential impacts of greenhouse solutions in their area. Through these interactions, students directly connect their learning to meaningful real-world issues, laying a strong foundation for their projects.

During the 'Sustainable Showcase', students will set up interactive stations to demonstrate the scientific principles behind their greenhouse designs, ensuring that all students actively engage and share their learning. Community partners and local experts are invited to give valuable feedback, offering insights that foster deeper connections with local food access initiatives. Students will present their documentary video, highlighting their journey, the community interactions, and the local impact, making it a compelling centerpiece of the exhibition. The event will feature collaborative sessions where participants discuss and refine greenhouse solutions based on community needs and expert advice, reinforcing the project's real-world relevance.