2nd Grade PBL Units

PBL Design Challenge

Using the Design Thinking Process, collaboratively engineer “The Most Magnificent Thing” for your teacher that will solve one of his/her needs.

PBL Summary

The basis for this mini-PBL unit is the book called "The Most Magnificent Thing" by Ashley Spires, where a young girl faces challenges in creating something extraordinary from her imagination. In this PBL, students will work together using the design thinking process to come up with their own version of "The Most Magnificent Thing" that can help their teacher solve a particular problem.

** Another version could be to build something for another student in the class. In this variation, students will partner up to create these innovations.

Link to PBL Guide

PBL Essential Question

How can we work together to design solutions for the problem a character faces in a story?

Design Challenge:

Collaboratively engineer a solution to a problem the characters face in the story using the Design Thinking process. 

Project Summary

In this project-based learning unit, students will explore the narrative texts featured in Unit 2 Benchmark by designing prototypes that aim to address the problems faced by the characters in the stories. They will employ the design thinking process to create these prototypes and will work collaboratively to develop solutions. By engaging in this process, students will develop valuable skills in collaboration, teamwork, and engineering.

Link to PBL Guide

PBL Essential Question

How can artists use properties of matter to express a message about kindness?

Project Summary

Students will learn how different kinds of matter exist and that many of them can be either solid or liquid, depending on temperature. Students will learn that matter can be described and classified by its observable properties and that different properties are suited for different purposes. Students will also learn how heating or cooling a substance may cause changes in matter. Students will connect these science concepts to art by studying various art mediums that experience changes in matter. Students will engage in learning about well known artists who change matter to make their works of art. Collaborative groups of students will then work together to create a work of art that shares the theme of “kindness matters” utilizing a technique that showcases a change in matter. This collaborative art will be on display at a “Kindness Matters” art show for other students and families to see. 

Link to the PBL Guide