The creation of this database began with the project outlined below from the 2014-2015 school year. A group of seniors was challenged to complete a crash course n a social issue and create an introductory lesson plan to that issue using the resources provided on this website and through their own research. The website has remained active as a resource database for myself and any other teacher seeking to incorporate social issues into their curriculum. This also is available to anyone looking to learn about the issues facing our world today and the current discourse that exists in a variety of forums and perspectives.
“In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity”
- Albert Einstein
- Albert Einstein
When historians look back centuries from now at our current world, what will they think? Today there are many problems facing our society that need to be addressed. We are flooded with news of war, disease, death, corruption, hate, and a variety of other negative topics everyday. Often these realities leave people feeling helpless to do anything. You are months away from graduation, which is a major step into the world, regardless of its state. You have an opportunity to be empowered with knowledge, an essential tool for change. Embrace this learning opportunity and take a major step in understanding the world in which we live.
However, we do not exist alone in the world and conflict arises between individuals and groups in situations where there is a clash of ideals, beliefs, way of life, etc. As you have learned, clashing group or individual
identities can create intractable conflicts. Over time, systematic problems, known as social issues, can result from these misunderstandings and clashing of identities.
Over the coming weeks you will engage with a variety of resources to deeply understand one of the following topics. During this learning process, you will be introduced to different reading strategies, through a variety of texts, related to your social issue. In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore your topic through other mediums, such as music, film, and art.
However, we do not exist alone in the world and conflict arises between individuals and groups in situations where there is a clash of ideals, beliefs, way of life, etc. As you have learned, clashing group or individual
identities can create intractable conflicts. Over time, systematic problems, known as social issues, can result from these misunderstandings and clashing of identities.
Over the coming weeks you will engage with a variety of resources to deeply understand one of the following topics. During this learning process, you will be introduced to different reading strategies, through a variety of texts, related to your social issue. In addition, you will have the opportunity to explore your topic through other mediums, such as music, film, and art.
Government/Power
Poverty Environment Race |
Gender
Immigration War/Terrorism Mental/Physical Health |
Religion
Globalization Violence/Refugees |
While you will be the expert learners in the studio on your particular topic, you will be expected to learn about and engage with each topic. At Niles New Tech, we strive to reach a mastery level of understanding, and one of the most rewarding ways to demonstrate understanding is by teaching the material. Each group will reflect on their learning, gather resources, and design a lesson to teach their peers.
Driving Question: How do we as global citizens become advocates for social issues and help to educate others, so together we can become instruments of change in our world.
In addition, part of our model is empowering learners to take charge of their education. While teachers learn from one another, they also have a great deal to learn from their students.. By creating and providing resources and ideas for teachers to use in their instruction you are becoming part of the field of education. You have a unique opportunity and perspective as learners. You know what interests current K12 students, how you, and learners like you, grow in understanding, and ways you would like to engage with the information. There is a great deal to be gained from your ideas and approach to each social issue. Perhaps there could be an opportunity to expand your lessons into the school and even the community?
A word of caution for you as you move forward. Social issues carry a certain level of controversy with them and in order to engage with these topics successfully you must have a growth mindset and be open to the various ideas that will be presented. In addition, perspectives may vary among your peers, meaning you might not always agree with one another. Please be respectful of one another and do not be afraid to embrace the differences; learn, challenge, and grow together.
Good Luck!
Driving Question: How do we as global citizens become advocates for social issues and help to educate others, so together we can become instruments of change in our world.
In addition, part of our model is empowering learners to take charge of their education. While teachers learn from one another, they also have a great deal to learn from their students.. By creating and providing resources and ideas for teachers to use in their instruction you are becoming part of the field of education. You have a unique opportunity and perspective as learners. You know what interests current K12 students, how you, and learners like you, grow in understanding, and ways you would like to engage with the information. There is a great deal to be gained from your ideas and approach to each social issue. Perhaps there could be an opportunity to expand your lessons into the school and even the community?
A word of caution for you as you move forward. Social issues carry a certain level of controversy with them and in order to engage with these topics successfully you must have a growth mindset and be open to the various ideas that will be presented. In addition, perspectives may vary among your peers, meaning you might not always agree with one another. Please be respectful of one another and do not be afraid to embrace the differences; learn, challenge, and grow together.
Good Luck!