7th Grade  Project 1 week

Perspectives in Bluegrass: Author's Lens

Michael S
Updated
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.6
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.9
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.6
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.6
CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.3
+ 5 more
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Purpose

This dynamic learning experience aims to deepen students' understanding of how authors convey their perspectives through language. By engaging in role-play, comparative analysis, and creative expression, students will explore diverse viewpoints, honing their critical thinking and communication skills. The project empowers students to critically analyze texts and articulate their insights through interactive exhibitions and guided discussions, fostering a strong sense of self-directed learning and community engagement.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this project include developing an understanding of how authors convey their perspectives through word choice, analyzing different texts to distinguish varying authorial viewpoints, and comparing how different authors address the same topic. Students will work on effective communication by presenting their insights and participating in discussions, as well as critical thinking in analyzing and interpreting texts. They will also practice self-directed learning by receiving feedback and refining their work, ultimately fostering a sense of academic identity and self-efficacy through engaging presentations and exhibitions.

Standards
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.6 - Determine an author's point of view or purpose in a text and analyze how the author distinguishes his or her position from that of others.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.9 - Analyze how two or more authors writing about the same topic shape their presentations of key information by emphasizing different evidence or advancing different interpretations of facts.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RH.6-8.6 - Identify aspects of a text that reveal an author's point of view or purpose (e.g., loaded language, inclusion or avoidance of particular facts).
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RL.7.6 - Analyze how an author develops and contrasts the points of view of different characters or narrators in a text.
  • [Common Core] CCSS.ELA-Literacy.RI.7.3 - Analyze the interactions between individuals, events, and ideas in a text (e.g., how ideas influence individuals or events, or how individuals influence ideas or events).
Competencies
  • Effective Communication - Students practice listening to understand, communicating with empathy, and share their learning through exhibiting, presenting and reflecting on their work.
  • 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.
  • 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

During this learning experience, students will create a 'Perspective Gallery Walk' poster, combining creative graphics and selected quotes to visually represent an author's perspective. Each student will also participate in a 'Perspective Panel' role-play, embodying authors with diverse viewpoints and analyzing word choice impact. These products will culminate in a school-wide exhibition where students guide visitors through their galleries and lead interactive discussions on their analyses.

Launch

Begin the project with a dynamic 'Perspective Panel' activity where students assume the roles of various authors with conflicting viewpoints on a familiar topic, such as a school policy debate. In this facilitated discussion, students will analyze and articulate how specific word choices shape their assigned author's perspective. This interactive simulation not only hooks students' interest but also lays the groundwork for understanding nuanced language and its impact on reader interpretation.

Exhibition

Students will conduct a 'Perspective Gallery Walk' throughout the school, with each presenting their poster that visually encapsulates an author's perspective. They will guide visitors through their analysis, extending invitations to fellow students, teachers, and families to attend. Each student will articulate their findings, focusing on the impact of language choices on reader perception, allowing for interactive discussions and feedback from attendees.