This project immerses students in uncovering and appreciating the stories of individuals who have overcome barriers through resilience and initiative, as exemplified in Hidden Figures. By engaging in independent research and collaborative discussions, students will analyze these hidden figures and reflect on the qualities that led to their success, drawing parallels to their own goals. The experience aims to cultivate empathy, cultural understanding, and self-reflection, ultimately equipping students with the skills to recognize and honor underrepresented contributions in various fields.
Learning goals
Students will develop collaborative research and presentation skills by investigating lesser-known individuals who have made significant contributions to society. They will refine their ability to communicate ideas effectively both in writing and through presentations, emphasizing cultural differences and historical contexts. The project aims to cultivate qualities of compassion, perseverance, and initiative as students learn about and relate to the challenges faced by their chosen "hidden figures." Lastly, students will enhance self-reflection skills by assessing their learning and understanding how these historical lessons can influence their personal goals.
Standards
[Wisconsin] L4 - Demonstrate an ability to collaboratively and independently build vocabulary knowledge when encountering unknown words including cultural, general academic, and discipline-specific terms and phrases; use vocabulary appropriate to the context and situation.
[Wisconsin] L5 - Discern when and where it is appropriate to use standardized English and demonstrate contextually appropriate use of the conventions of standardized English grammar and usage when writing or speaking.
[Wisconsin] R1 - Read closely to determine what the text says explicitly or implicitly and to make logical inferences from it; cite specific textual evidence when writing or speaking to support conclusions drawn from the text.
[Wisconsin] R3 - Analyze how and why individuals, events, and ideas develop and interact over the course of a text.
[Wisconsin] R9 - Analyze and evaluate texts using knowledge of literary forms, elements, and devices through a variety of lenses and perspectives.
[Wisconsin] W6 - Use print and digital technology to produce and publish writing and to interact and collaborate with others.
[Wisconsin] W8 - Gather relevant information from multiple print, digital, and community sources, assess the credibility and accuracy of each source, and follow a standard citation format.
[Wisconsin] W9 - Draw evidence from literary or informational texts to support analysis, reflection, and inquiry.
[Wisconsin] SL1 - Prepare for and participate effectively in a range of conversations and collaborations with diverse partners, building on others' ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.
[Wisconsin] SL4 - Present information, findings, and supporting evidence such that listeners can follow the line of reasoning and the organization, development, and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience.
Competencies
Navigating Power - Race and identity (GC.SA.2.b)
Cultures - Cultural difference (FK.SS.4.a)
Building Empathy - Understanding others' viewpoints (GC.IS.3.a)
Community Mobilization - Removing barriers (GC.SAg.2.b)
Self-Regulation - Self-reflection (LL.SM.3.b)
Products
Students will conduct research on a chosen "hidden figure," compiling their findings into digital presentations such as slideshows, video essays, or interactive websites. These presentations will highlight the individual's contributions and the skills they utilized to overcome challenges. Students will contextualize their research by connecting the perseverance, compassion, and initiative demonstrated by their chosen figure to their own goals and experiences. The completed presentations will be shared and celebrated both in class and on the school’s digital platforms to foster community recognition and understanding.
Launch
Begin the project by hosting an engaging book circle where students share thoughts on "Hidden Figures" and discuss key themes. Then, watch a brief video clip about one of the "hidden figures" covered in the book to spark curiosity and discussion. To connect with the project's goals, conduct a brainstorming session where students list qualities they observed in the characters and how these qualities helped them overcome challenges, setting the stage for their exploration of other lesser-known heroes.
Exhibition
Students will showcase their projects by presenting their findings on "hidden figures" through digital presentations, which will be shared on the school website for a wider audience. Classmates and school community members will gather for a celebratory event where students will orally present their projects, highlighting the compassion, perseverance, and initiative of the figures they researched. This occasion will provide students with an opportunity to articulate and support their insights, allowing for reflection and a deeper connection with the themes explored in the project.