1. Designer Topic One: Managing Classroom Dynamics by Building a Connected Community of Learners Project: California Gold Rush BRIAN LEMPOLA
2. OBJECTIVES THE STUDENTS WILL: Identify their preferred learning styles. Understand how first impressions can often times be misleading. Research and learn about a variety of aspects relating to the California Gold Rush. Compare dynamics of mining groups to their own diverse learning groups. Will choose a method of presenting their research project to the class.
4. STEP TWO: PAUL POTTS VIDEO Students will watch and record their first impressions from Britain’s Got Talent youtube video. After getting to know Paul Potts and hearing his story and watching him perform in the finals students will write their final impressions. Class discussion. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bEo5bjnJViA http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K_5W4t_CBzg
11. OPTION TWO: Students will dress like western gold seekers during the 1840’s and 1850’s and conduct an interview with questions about the following: goals of travelers, the journey, struggles and successes, positive and negative interactions, lasting effects.
12. OPTION THREE: Students will create a video of a performed skit detailing a specific event or interaction between gold seekers during the California Gold Rush.
13. Journal – Free Write –Sample Questions: What was the benefit of assigning tasks and dividing up the work? What advantages did gold seekers have to work together? What struggles you face working together as a group? What struggles did gold seekers face when working alongside others? What benefits did you find of working in groups on this project?
15. 4 Excellent: Student has exceeded classroom expectations and learner outcomes. The student has been a positive influence on their learning team environment. 3 Proficient: Student has met the learning objectives and demonstrated knowledge of the topic. 2 Basic: Student has met some but not all of the learning objectives. 1 Below Expectations: Student has not achieved the learning objectives and failed to work in a helpful, positive manner with their peers. CRITERIA
