The Material World: A Global Family Portrait2010-2011

Class SyllabusResearch Skills Module

Ms. Burton

Class Objectives: This class portrays and documents twelve families in Bhutan, Cuba, Iceland, Japan, Kuwait, Mali, Mexico, Mongolia, Samoa, South Africa, Thailand, and the United States. Students will learn about their work, their attitudes toward their possessions, and their hopes for the future. As a result, students will be able to

See the common humanity of peoples inhabiting our earth and the great differences in material goods and circumstances that make rich and poor societies.

Respond to critical thinking questions and reading strategies. Research the social and economic conditions of each family and compare and

contrast these aspects. Engage in lessons on world cultures, geography, and economics while

studying the differences in the possessions of average families. Apply knowledge about the ranges in wealth and the face of poverty in

today’s world. Make predictions about the future.

Summary: This interdisciplinary unit allows students to develop critical thinking skills through the use of photography, literature, print media, and a variety of technology. Students witness first hand humanity in relation to belongings and lifestyles. Students will develop a global perspective on the diverse world in which we live.

Technology Components:

http://comparing cultures.blogspot.com The Material World Power Point Kiosks and other multimedia presentations using projector

Power Point , Mouse Mischief, and Prezi Wireless Mice Document Camera (used to highlight the12 curriculum

posters) Various teacher selected websites for enrichment and research

Students will be expected to participate in weekly class discussions created by the teacher using the class blog. Students will be required to follow the guidelines on the blogging rubric.

Additional Resources: In addition to teacher the Material World Curriculum, teacher selected websites, available technologies, and the class blog; students will use the classroom resource library, maps, and a variety of other educational materials.

The Project:Students will develop a multiple intelligence focused tiered project based on the end of the unit project rubric.