Integrated Projects and Capstone

Grades 6-8

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The essential theme in Grade 6 is Failing Forward. Students spent the second semester of Integrated Projects honing in on one issue, person, or civilization that exemplifies the notion of using failure as a stepping stone towards success. After researching both the topic in general, and specifically digging into how that person/group failed forward, students created a final project as a way to communicate their research to the broader community. Through the Design Thinking Process, students had to think critically about who would benefit from learning about this topic and how to convey their message through different means. Students worked closely with a teacher mentor throughout the process and were encouraged to incorporate many skills learned in the Kol-lab to enhance their creations. Grade 6 students were assessed on their ability to plan a project, including organization, innovation and creativity, critical thinking, and modeling.

Drawing on the themes from Rashi’s comprehensive social justice program, and fresh off the tails of Tamchui’s student-led learning, students in Grade 7 had the opportunity to explore a social justice issue that was personally meaningful to them. The project began with students identifying a client and a method for evoking change in that arena. Students were challenged to find innovative ways to have an impact on their topic. After raising funds and awareness for Tamchui, they explore new ways to make a difference, outside of donating money or goods. Through research, students learned more about their topic, discovered how current leaders in the field are already addressing the issue, and investigated how they could scale this down to individually create an impact and enact change. Students worked closely with a teacher mentor throughout the process and were encouraged to incorporate many skills learned in the Kol-lab to enhance their creations. Grade 7 students were assessed on their ability to execute a project, using initiative, persistence, reflection/evaluation, and forward-thinking.  

The yearly question in Grade 8 focuses on identity. Students were able to draw inspiration from all of their classes, and create a unique final project that highlights their passions. Because each project is done individually, they have full ownership over the direction they choose to go in. Every student works closely with a mentor to tailor each project to their specific needs. They have full access to everything in the Kol-lab and are encouraged to draw on the skills they’ve been building throughout the year. Students are assessed on a rubric we’ve been using throughout the year broken into four components of planning, collaboration, execution, and communication. Their hard work culminates in the Capstone Presentations that are open to the entire school community. Grade 8 students were assessed on their ability to communicate about and present their project, including formatting, body language, and engagement.