About this site
The learning experience presented here is a multidisciplinary project-based learning unit. It is intended for the 2nd grade classroom. According to the typical scope and sequence of social studies, this age group is intended to be focusing solely on local and regional communities. However, I believe it is important for students even at this young age to begin gaining an understanding of cultures other than their own. This understanding lays the foundation for acceptance, curiosity, respect, and appreciation of those who differ from them.
Scaffolding
The presented plan leaves plenty of room for scaffolding. The grouping of the students themselves, whether it is heterogenous or homogenous, allows for plenty of differentiation. The directions for the activities can also be easily scaffolded, provided more or less directions depending on the students' needs. Overall, the teacher must know his or her students before implementing a learning experience such as this.
Before Beginning
The students should have plenty of background knowledge to build on before completing this project. Students should have background in studying what a continent is, what the seven continents are, and a general idea of where they are on the globe. Students should have an idea of what culture is. Students should know what geography is and what it encompasses. Students should be aware of the wide variety of people that live in the world within and beyond their community.
TEacher Prep
Group students intentionally. Create Google Doc and share. Ensure all iPads are charged and functional.