Project Based Learning- If I Could Create an Animal

Photo by Wexor Tmg on Unsplash

In my first grade classroom, I would like to do a project based learning unit over animal external structures. During the project, students will have to research different animals and how their external structures help them live. Once they are done researching, they will then create their own animal. The students will be able to present their new animal using their preferred presentation tool (ex. SeeSaw, drawings, Canva, etc.) Below I made an example of what a student may produce using Adobe Express.

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When it comes to working with first graders, I wanted to show them how simple a project like this can be. With Adobe Express, they would be able to easily add pictures, videos, music, and voiceovers with just a click of a button. All of the tools are already provided in Adobe, so my students wouldn’t have to look for any additional presentation tools.

Digital storytelling is a beneficial presentation tool for elementary school students. At 7 years old, about half of my students would prefer not to stand up in front of the class. However, they love to talk and tell stories to their friends and with me. Projects can be scary to students who hate public speaking, so digital storytelling provides a solution for students to share their thoughts without having to actually talk in front of everyone. My hope is for my students to break out of their comfort zone and get creative with this project. Whether they stand up in front of the class or play a video of their voice, all I want is for their voice and story to be heard.