This lesson is for : Grade 7:
Summary
The deaf and hard of hearing are not just capable of communicating, but are a vital part of our society. Unfortunately, they face a number of obstacles because American Sign Language isn’t widely known.
Students worked in self-selected agencies to bring awareness to an issue they found compelling and worked hard to develop a well-rounded and well-researched image for their agency. They ultimately synthesized their research into a Ted Talk that would educate their peers and inspire others to join their cause.
This project is a perfect example of student inquiry – students were motivated and passionate about their issue, dove into the research and decided to take action. This provided an authentic experience for them, including opportunities to collaborate, modify, and experience their learning.
TIPC Ratings
Research & Information Fluency
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: This is an ideal example of student-driven inquiry. Students chose a cause they were passionate about and engaged in research to support that cause. Students used their previous knowledge to identify reliable resources. They curated their research using shared Google Docs and then synthesized their learning into a powerful campaign to promote awareness of their cause which included a TED Talk, advertisement, and commercial.
Communication & Collaboration
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: Creating their own agency to promote awareness for a cause of their choosing provides an authentic opportunity for students to collaborate. Students use their knowledge of various digital tools and the task at hand to select appropriate tools for curating research (Google Docs), creating graphics (Google Draw), writing scripts and speeches (Google Docs), and filming commercials (Windows Movie Maker and WeVideo). Students also reach beyond the classroom walls to conduct interviews of the deaf and hard of hearing in their community. Students continued to include the community, presenting their campaigns during two community events.
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: Students researched issues faced by the deaf and hard of hearing and then participated in a socratic seminar to determine the four most critical issues facing the deaf community today. Student chose the issue they felt most passionate about and wanted to solve. Students further researched their issue and worked collaboratively within their agency to propose viable solutions. During the lesson, each agency reflected on their progress as well as gave to and received feedback from other agencies. Each agency used their reflections and feedback to make decisions to improve their campaign.
Creativity & Innovation
Rating: Ideal – Explanation: By not only researching the deaf and hard of hearing as well as the issues they face, but by also learning ASL, students gained new insights and perspectives. Students used their critical thinking skills, research methods, collaborative practices to create campaigns to bring awareness to issues facing the deaf and hard of hearing in our community.
Lesson Materials
