7th Grade Language Arts \\ Classroom NewsletterContact Information:Miss Marie DavidsonMbdavidson@crimson.ua.edu(513) 675-3719Office Hours: 10:00-11:00am or 3:30-4:00pm

Upcoming Unit:{Comparing Cinderella's}

Standard: LA8) Compare selections of culturally diverse literature and their characteristics.

Objective: Students will identify similarities and differences between three different cultures.

Summary: Comparing Cinderella’s

Summary

During this unit, students will explore different versions of Cinderella based on the culture of other countries. Through their information and research, students will compare and contrast the culture in these different places. Once students have collected adequate information, they will work together in groups of 3-4 people to create their own holiday. This holiday will need to include: food, activity, date (time of year), reason for the holiday. Students will need to collaborate and use their communication skills to work together in their groups.

Benefits

Throughout this unit, students will gain a deeper understanding of other cultures, including their own. They will also grow in their critical thinking skills as they are challenged to think outside the box as they collaborate with others. Students must use their communication skills to adequately complete and implement their project.

About Our Unit: Comparing Cinderella’s

Essential Question Does culture influence us?

Unit Questions 1. What is the culture of Africa?

2. What is the culture of China?

Content Questions 1. What is culture?2. What is influence?

Student Parent Teacher Complete the reading

Collaborate with others

Communicate with my group members daily

Complete my work on time

Complete presentation

Ask questions when I don’t understand

Implement project (Check rubric)

Ask my child questions

Remind student of deadlines

Double check student’s work

Communicate with teacher for any questions/concerns

Provide resources needed

Respond to parent’s in a timely manner

Provide guidelines for student Facilitate bi-weekly “check-in’s”

Monitor student’s progress

Assess student’s work using the assessment calendar

What is my Role? : Comparing Cinderella’s

Project-Based Learning (PBL)Definition of PBL

an authentic model of teaching that uses hands-on experiences to engage students in critical thinking.

Implementation in the Classroom

Students use skills such as collaboration, communication and technology to discover more about culture and how it influences us. PBL highlights the importance of using and developing critical thinking skills to learn. The PBL strategy encourages attaining knowledge by "doing it".