Community Handbook - MSA 10KM

Disciplines/Subjects: English Language Arts, Social Science, Geography

Key Themes:

Expository Writing

Community Engagement

Local Geography and Environment

Civic Responsibility

Real-World Application of Writing

In this project, students will engage in expository writing to create a comprehensive community handbook for the MSA 10KM area. This area spans from the school campus to a 10km radius. Students will explore the community through activities like walking tours and observations, collecting data on local culture, architecture, and environment. They will then compile this data into a clear, informative guide that can be used by new students, parents, and visitors to understand the community. The project connects writing skills with real-life experiences, demonstrating the value of writing in everyday life. Students will also develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and civic engagement skills, reinforcing their role in contributing to the community.

Habits of mind:

1. Critical Thinking: Analyzing the community and its elements to gather meaningful insights.
2. Observation and Reflection: Engaging in community walks and reflecting on the findings.
3. Problem Solving: Using writing and research skills to organize and present the information in a useful format.

Cognitive skills:

1. Research skills: Observing and collecting relevant data from the community to create an informative guide.
2. Writing skills: Using expository writing techniques to clearly and effectively communicate information.
3. Analytical thinking: Evaluating and organizing community data to produce a cohesive and insightful handbook.

Content Knowledge:

1. Understanding of the community’s cultural, environmental, and architectural features.
2. Knowledge of expository writing structures and techniques.
3. Awareness of how communities are shaped by their environment, culture, and history, and how they contribute to civic responsibility.