6th Grade  Project 6 weeks

Mummy Mania: Apples and Chickens

Leah S
Updated
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Effective Communication
Content Expertise
Collaboration
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Purpose

Students will engage in a dynamic exploration of the ancient Egyptian practice of mummification, applying historical methods alongside modern scientific understanding to preserve apples and chickens. Through this project, students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills as they innovate and adapt traditional techniques to achieve successful mummification and learn the chemistry behind it. Collaborative efforts will be key as students work in teams, exchanging ideas and sharing roles to optimize outcomes. Each student will practice effective communication as they present their projects, reflect on their findings, and share learnings with other classes, fostering a deeper connection to the ancient practice's historical significance and its symbolism.

Learning goals

Through this hands-on exploration of mummification, students will delve into the ancient Egyptian practices, understanding the significance of mummies and the chemistry behind preservation techniques. They will apply scientific methods to mummify apples and chickens, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Students will collaborate in teams, sharing insights while exercising shared decision-making and assuming leadership roles. Effective communication will be developed as students exhibit their work and reflect on their learning processes when presenting to other classes. This project offers opportunities for content expertise in historical and scientific concepts, while encouraging iterative learning through critique and revision of failed mummification attempts.

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.
  • 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.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.

Products

Students will collaboratively create mummified apples and chickens using a blend of ancient Egyptian methods and modern scientific understanding. Throughout the project, students will document their processes and findings, creating a digital or physical portfolio that showcases their mummification techniques and insights. These portfolios will include reflections on challenges encountered, solutions developed, and their understanding of the mummification process. Students will present their mummified items and portfolios to other classes as a culmination of their project-based learning experience.

Launch

To launch the project, students will participate in an immersive simulation of an ancient Egyptian burial ritual using modern materials and techniques, discussing cultural perspectives and science behind mummification. They'll interact with artifacts and visuals, sparking interest in the chemistry and symbolism of mummification. This engaging activity will set the stage for collaboration and exploration in the weeks ahead.

Exhibition

Students will organize an interactive exhibition where they present their mummified apples and chickens to other classes. They will set up stations showcasing both the historical context and the scientific process of mummification. Students will enhance their presentation skills by explaining their projects, discussing challenges they encountered, and answering questions from visitors, highlighting their understanding and reflecting on their learning journey.