Past: Ancient Egypt

Dear Readers and Thinkers,

Survival is about systems. When we understand a system and start to think outside of ourselves, we think with a multi-lens approach. In this work we think, problem solve, and question like a geographer, an explorer, and journalist/writer. When we begin to think and act in this way, we can influence conditions by recognizing and uncovering how people's mental models impact their beliefs, values, and actions. Understanding this helps us organize and develop ideas while using strategies to explore alternative ways of thinking. To accomplish this we need to seek ideas and perspectives from others, including those that are contradictory - we do this to evaluate, refine and test the thoughts and ideas we've explored, questioned, developed and created collaboratively.

Research

Where you live impacts how you live (enduring understanding)

Using reliable resources, students dig into Ancient Egypt text, make meaning, while synthesizing the components of SURVIVAL necessary for this civilization.

Opportunity is the driving force that influences the development of global regions (enduring understanding)

Manage clear, relevant and accurate information

(6th grade ELA Proficiency: Discerning Researcher)

We Notice...

Survival Depends On...

Designed systems for DECISION MAKING
CONNECTED to the community WITHIN - Communication & Awareness of needs and problems
RESOURCES are valuable
Specific SKILL SETS support a SOLUTION FOCUSED mindset
It is imparative to be able to think CREATIVELY, to use COMPLEX THINKING & INGENUITY to SOLVE problems

Design CREDIBLE and RELEVANT messages to meet the needs of diverse individuals

(Universal Constructs)

The Power of Podcasting

Providing real-world opportunities for students to brand themselves as they communicate in UNIQUE, DIFFERENT, INNOVATIVE ways, all while engaging with an authentic audience. Bringing this information about our past to life through "storytelling" allows the listener to connect to the journey and sparks curiousity. Podcasting is also an authentic opportunity to build conversational competence. Students are confident in discussing their new learning. This sets the stage for subsequent steps in this work. Students begin to see how they can add value to the 'greater good'. They begin to see that this is bigger than the individual. All voices are needed. This is a natural connection to introducing Iowa's Universal Constructs ( creativity, productivity/adaptability, collaboration, communication, flexible/adaptible and critical thinking).

As researchers and consumers of information, we ask provoking questions and think critically to develop a deeper understanding of a group of people, their culture, and their system for survival. Following this mini cycle, students create scripts, and develop meaningful conversations that illustrate the big ideas within their topic (empire). We work collaborativly to be effective communicators as we showcase and defend our learning.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse