Last week, we launched our new social studies unit, "Community Activism." In this unit, the first graders will consider questions such as, "What is an activist?" "How can we peacefully and creatively solve conflicts in our community?" and "How does activism relate to community building?"
We started our unit by referring to community activists we've already studied, like Martin Luther King Jr, Cesar Chavez and Dolores Huerta. We also started learning about Wangari and the janitors from Los Angeles who went on a strike a few years ago. We will also study Alia Muhammad Baker, Rosa Parks, Gandhi and even more! Ask your child to tell you what they've learned so far.
This week, the first graders listed problems they see in our community - problems they would like to try and fix. Issues we listed included: pollution, smoking, racism, respect for all, free to be you and me, and more. The first graders shared personal stories and had a lot of questions! Next week, we will select an issue to address as a class and create an action plan. More to come on that soon.
Meanwhile, in writing workshop, we are writing opinion books - books that state our opinion about something and give supporting reasons. For the last two weeks, we wrote opinion books on favorite places, food, activities, pets, etc. Next week, each first grader will start an opinion book about an issue that's close to her/his heart.
When we visit MFTA, we will even engage in an art project tied to community activism.
At our family share on Monday June 9th, we will celebrate the culmination of this project, from our opinion books, art work and activist work!
