Subject Lead:
Science
Creativity and science are both intrinsically and extrinsically linked: experimentation is an inherent part of creativity, and creativity itself has been studied through the use of science. Consider having students learn about different forms of artistry: such as color psychology or the color light spectrum, and have students design and test hypotheses on the topics.
Subject Lead:
Science
Use print or internet sources to research which locations around the world are the most susceptible to climate change. What forms does that risk take? What actions can be taken to assist high-risk areas? Predict the indirect impact for neighboring cities and countries who may not be at as great a risk.
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Perform additional research about green spaces, third spaces, and other forms of city planning. Dive into a deep analysis of your community and see what types of spaces are available. What changes could be made? Prepare a full blueprint or model and present it to local stakeholders.
Subject Lead:
Science
Consider the science of how stereotypes are formed. Are these natural occurrences? How are they unlearned? What is the purpose of stereotyping and why is it important to break away from them?
Subject Lead:
Language Arts
Have students create presentations on “wicked problems” (problems that aren't easily solved), presenting the scenario of a specific "trolley problem" and advocating for positions on both sides, allowing them to moderate a healthy debate among students. Consider if the Trolley would need to "run" at all.
Subject Lead:
Mathematics
As described throughout the lesson below - rhythm, music, and mathematics are heavily connected. Learn about the history of keys, chords, and musical notation, with a specific focus on the Greek philosopher Pythagoras who was “instrumental” in creating these ideas!
Subject Lead:
Science
“Tenacity” is often cited as a way of knowing defined by tradition: something is true because it has always been considered true. Authority and intuition are also cited as ways of knowing. What makes science stand out in its foundations, methods, and criteria from other ways of knowing and understanding the world?
Subject Lead:
Physical Education
Like art, science, and mathematics, our understanding of the body (and exercise) has changed drastically over time. Especially in dieting, many fads have caused ludicrous notions of health and exercise. Explore these ideas, such as tapeworm diets, Olympic Athlete diets (500BC), or the “Chew and Spit” diet.
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Consider historical events, works of art, novels, movies, and music that are popular in other countries but not your own. Using subtitles or a translation service, analyze the works and highlight their popularity in the other country. Create a collection of various works that can be shown off to others to appreciate the culture.
Subject Lead:
Language Arts
Read this article summarizing points in the book, Excellent Sheep, which talks about the obsession with US ivy league schools. Consider: does a competitive education bring us happiness?
Subject Lead:
Mathematics
Although many are familiar with dyslexia, less know about dyscalculia: a learning disability that hampers mathematical thinking. Roughly 10% of elementary school students are believed to have dyscalculia. Consider other ways that mathematics can be taught than simple arithmetic, and showcase these ideas through that lens. For example: rhythm, music, games, hands-on activities, building.
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Research the state of “flow” and connect it to the hobbies you love (or take on a new hobby!) Document how understanding a “flow state” changes, for better or worse, your interest, engagement, or motivation in conducting your hobby.
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Perform an in-depth study on a job site, documenting what different employees do, why they do them, and what happiness they obtain from their workplace. Connect this to your interests — is this something that you (or someone else) would love doing?
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Analyze how bias and historical context are relevant within school curriculum (e.g. how schools teach about certain subjects, especially current events and major historical time periods).
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Taking time to decompress is a vital part of accomplishing goals. Although it may seem counterintuitive, knowing how to relax is just as important as working toward a goal. Work with peers to start a program focused on mindfulness, socializing, and meeting up together for fun activities.
Subject Lead:
Any Subject
Using your knowledge of the algorithm, research how these concepts could be used to advertise a business or nonprofit. Partner with a local organization, offering to manage their social media, developing a content and branding strategy to increase engagement.