Find 7 Sundays
Shared purpose in the classroom creates authentic learning experiences that give kidsĀ āskin in the game,ā as my mentor would say. When student work goes beyond the classroom, beyond themselves, that is when students feel most like they have a voice. Their work matters and they are being heard. Here are 7 finds that can inspire you, assist you as a teacher, or beautiful outcomes of what this work can look like.Ā
1. MY first find was a NY Times Article I was introduced to a few months back that helps connect literature and social studies to what is happening today. Then it challenges teachers and students to take the connection and act on it by doing a community project.Ā
2. Straight-forward, directĀ ā21 Tips for Connecting Learners to Their Communities.ā This resource provides ways to engage and provide value to all your learners to get them involved with the community through their work.Ā
3. Here is an example from Calimera Park in Detroit. Students worked together to build thisĀ āEdible Hutā within their local park. Students learned about recycled products, their impact on the environment, and the idea ofĀ āEdible Hutsā (i.e. structures built from recycled materials). The structure now stands in the park and provides a space for parties, performances, and a space to sell fresh veggies on the weekends.Ā
4. Next is a personal example I wanted to share. I completed a writing project with my 5th grade students around the controversial topics of zoos. We first researched zoos, watched videos, read articles, and made our own opinions on zoos. We then took a field trip to the Philadelphia Zoo and recorded some observational data on what we saw. Students then wrote a research argumentative essay, outlining their thoughts on zoos, and backing them up with supported evidence. Lastly, after we were all informed about our opinions, we wrote letters to conservationists, senators, zoo officials, etc. Explaining our findings and what we would like to see happen in the future. Some students even received letters back! My students were so excited to see all their hard work actually be put into use by sharing their work outside the classroom.Ā
5. One of my favorite ways for students to get involved in something bigger than themselves is with a model UN! Students can learn as a class, in groups, and independently about different governments, countries, and cultures. They spend a marking period learning everything they can about their country, the way it runs, and what are its current strengths/challenges as a country. Students then put their learning into action with a model UN. Find more information here.Ā
6. Iām not a math teacher, but I LOVE math. I think sometimes it gets left out of the conversations because it feels daunting or overwhelming to non-math teachers. Here is a really great resources that involves Math and the community for different ages & projects.Ā
7. Last, but not least. I couldnāt leave out our very own example coming directly from Arcadia students. The art department at Arcadia collaborated and beautified the Glenside train station! Way to get involved with community. Read about it here!
