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4th Grade  Project 1 week

Refugee Tales: Vietnamese Voices in California

Riza E
Updated
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Effective Communication
Academic Mindset
Collaboration
Self Directed Learning
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Purpose

The purpose of this learning experience is to deepen students' understanding of Vietnamese refugees' resilience and contributions to California communities through children's literature. By engaging with authentic stories, students will explore themes of identity, community, and perseverance. The project aims to foster empathy, critical thinking, and effective communication while allowing students to express their insights creatively through collaborative art.

Learning goals

Students will analyze children's literature to understand the historical impact of Vietnamese refugees in California. They will develop critical thinking skills by exploring themes of resilience and community contribution. Through collaboration, students will create a class mural that visually represents their learning and reflections on the refugee experience. Effective communication will be practiced as students present their work and engage in discussions with peers and community members.

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.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • 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.

Products

Students will collaboratively create a class mural that visually narrates the journey and contributions of Vietnamese refugees in California. Throughout the project, they will also develop individual reflection pieces and share stories from the children's literature they explore. These products will be showcased in the "Journey of Resilience Showcase," where students present their mural and reflections to family members and community partners.

Launch

Begin with a "Literary Adventure Kickoff," where students embark on a scavenger hunt through the library's curated collection of children's literature by Vietnamese authors. As they explore, students will discover books and clues that introduce the themes of refugee experiences and community contributions. This engaging activity will spark curiosity and set the stage for deeper exploration throughout the project.

Exhibition

Organize a "Journey of Resilience Showcase" where students present their class mural alongside personal reflections and stories they've explored. Invite family members, community partners, and local Vietnamese authors to attend, fostering a community dialogue about the refugee experience and cultural contributions. Encourage students to share their learning journey through interactive presentations, allowing guests to ask questions and engage with the students' work.