Students will complete a series of inquiry-based learning activities that encourage them to investigate their community, collaborate with others, and use technology to share their learning.
Activity 1: Discovering Our Community
Students:
- Brainstorm community strengths and challenges.
- Explore maps, photos, and local resources.
- Develop inquiry questions.
Activity 2: Community Investigation
Learning Goal:
Students will learn more about a community issue by using reliable sources and, when possible, speaking with someone who has knowledge or experience related to the issue.
Time:
2–3 class periods
Materials:
Chromebooks or tablets, Google Docs, research notes, community resources, and interview questions if needed.
What Students Will Do:
- Choose a community issue they would like to learn more about.
- Come up with 3–5 questions they would like answered.
- Look for information using reliable sources.
- Think about someone in their family or community who may know more about the issue.
- If possible, ask that person a few prepared questions.
- Keep track of the most useful information they find.
- Meet with their group to talk about what they discovered and decide what they want to use moving forward.
Teacher Role:
I will help students develop their questions, find appropriate sources, and make connections with people in the community when possible. I will also check in with groups throughout the activity and provide support when needed.
Assessment:
I will look at students' questions and research notes and observe how they participate in the investigation. I will also look at whether they used information from more than one source.
Activity 3: Creating Solutions
Students:
- Work in groups to develop ideas.
- Plan a digital product.
- Receive peer and teacher feedback.
Activity 4: Sharing Our Learning
Students:
- Present their work to classmates, families, or community members.
- Reflect on their learning and the impact of their project.