4th Grade  Project 8 weeks

Tiny Homes, Big Impact: Eco Community Design!

Shelley S
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Collaboration
Effective Communication
Content Expertise
Self Directed Learning
+ 1 more
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Purpose

The purpose of this project-based learning experience is to engage 4th-grade students in designing sustainable tiny homes through hands-on collaboration and real-world applications. By participating in this project, students will explore innovative approaches to minimizing environmental impact and understanding renewable energy solutions, as well as develop critical academic skills such as area and perimeter calculation. The project facilitates meaningful interactions with community partners, enabling students to connect their learning with community needs and global sustainability efforts, thereby fostering a deeper understanding of their role in creating a sustainable future.

Learning goals

Students will master the calculation of area and perimeter by developing accurate floor plans for their tiny house designs, applying these measurements to create detailed blueprints. They will explore locally available renewable energy sources and gain hands-on experience in powering model homes, deepening their understanding of environmental impact and sustainable living practices. By collaborating with peers and community partners such as architects and renewable energy providers, students will enhance their critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills, reinforcing an academic mindset grounded in real-world applications. The emphasis on reflection and self-directed learning will cultivate students' ability to engage in thoughtful design processes, adapting their approaches based on constructive peer and expert feedback.
Competencies
  • 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.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • 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.

Products

Students will design and construct miniature tiny houses showcasing their sustainable design choices and renewable energy solutions. Throughout the project, they will develop a detailed blueprint that integrates area and perimeter calculations and features energy-efficient systems. By the end, students will have crafted both digital presentations and physical models of their tiny homes to effectively demonstrate the environmental benefits and innovative aspects of their designs.

Launch

Kick off the project with a dynamic 'Tiny House Designing Workshop,' where students freely brainstorm and sketch initial floor plans using basic geometry. Invite eco-friendly architects to guide students in incorporating sustainable practices into their designs. Follow up with a 'Sustainable Adventure Day,' engaging students in outdoor activities such as scavenger hunts, aided by community partners, to spot renewable energy solutions around the school environment.

Exhibition

Host an interactive 'Model Village Gallery Walk,' where students present their miniature tiny homes and serve as 'gallery guides,' explaining the eco-friendly design aspects and energy solutions of their models to peers, family, and community experts. Organize a 'Tiny House Open House' event simulating a tour of a real sustainable tiny home community, with students leading guided tours that highlight their design choices and the environmental benefits. This exhibition will culminate the project, celebrating the collective learning and creative impact of the students' work while fostering meaningful community dialogue on sustainable living.