Firchau: Social Studies (Week of September 19)

This week we will proceed down the path of discovery in our exploration of the problem-solving process.

The students have been given the challenge of using their powers of innovation to see how long they can keep paper aloft.

LEARNING TARGETS
I can use a problem-solving/decision-making process which includes:
• Identifying a problem;

• Gathering information;

• Listing and considering options;

• Considering advantages and disadvantages of options;

• Choosing and implementing a solution;

• Developing criteria for judging its effectiveness;

• Evaluating the effectiveness of the solution.

MONDAY
No school -- GOOD LUCK at THE FAIR!

TUESDAY
• Begin working with a partner to use the problem solving process
• Document the experience using "sketchbook"
• REMEMBER be aware and open ... innovate ... try the untried ... see something different!

WEDNESDAY
• Begin working with a partner to use the problem solving process
• Document the experience using "sketchbook"
• REMEMBER be aware and open ... innovate ... try the untried ... see something different!

THURSDAY
• Demonstrate solution

FRIDAY
• Reflect on the process
• Review the steps of the process (purpose)

Firchau: Social Studies (Week of September 12)

This week we will begin a unit on the process of problem-solving

MONDAY:
Begin PROBLEM-SOLVING Unit
Discuss learning targets
• I can use a problem-solving/decision-making process which includes:
Identifying a problem;
Gathering information;
Listing and considering options;
Considering advantages and disadvantages of options;
Choosing and implementing a solution;
Developing criteria for judging its effectiveness;
Evaluating the effectiveness of the solution.

Discuss creativity and "Freedom from Fear!"

Discuss the "How-Tos" of Problem-solving

TUESDAY:
Review the creative approach to problem solving

Discuss the steps of the problem-solving process

Introduce problem-solving challenge (to be revealed)

WEDNESDAY:
Begin to view "Leonardo's Dream Machines"

• Relate the experiences of Leonardo, the engineers, and designers to the problem-solving process and take notes on observations

THURSDAY:
Finish "Leonardo's Dream Machines"

• Relate the experiences of Leonardo, the engineers, and designers to the problem-solving process take notes on observations.

• Discuss how the film relates to our challenge. What can be learned from the film?

FRIDAY:
Discuss the application of the steps of the problem-solving process.