Collaborative Learning for 1st Grade Social Studies and Arts Standards

Collaborative Learning Activity Template
Select an early elementary (K-4) grade level. Create five small group activities aligned to state standards in social studies and the arts that develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Include differentiation to meet the needs of the students on the “Class Profile.”
Grade Level: Grade 1
Social Studies Standards: NSS-G.K-12.2 Places and Regions: Understands the history of the local community and how communities in North America varied long ago.
Arts Standards: NA-VA.K-4.1 Understanding and Applying Media, Techniques, and Processes: Students use different media, techniques, and processes to communicate ideas, experiences, and stories
Small Group Activity 1: Venn Diagram
Standards-based Objectives: At the end of the activity, the students are expected to distinguish between their community’s history and current condition with 80% accuracy.

Learning Activity

The small groups of students will complete a Venn Diagram highlighting the differences and similarities between their community then and now.

Role of Teacher

The teacher will discuss the community’s history before moving on to how the community is doing today. The teacher will also prepare the materials needed by the students and guide them through the task.

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Role of Students

The students will actively participate in the discussion and share their perspectives on the community based on what they have learned from family members. Each group member must contribute ideas. Then, they will complete the Venn Diagram based on what they have learned and already know.

Integration of the Arts

The students will draw a Venn Diagram using their coloring materials.

Media or Technology Integration

The teacher will show video clips depicting the community’s history.

Differentiation

Students whose Reading Performance Level is lower than their grade level will receive an activity sheet with a Venn Diagram already prepared and be permitted to use single-word entries on their task. On the other hand, students whose level is higher than their grade level will be asked to write three sentences summarizing their Venn Diagram. In addition, more advanced students will help those who require assistance.

Formative Assessment

Thumbs Up or Thumbs Down: The teacher will read statements regarding the lesson, and the students need to give a thumbs up if the statement is correct and thumbs down if the statement is incorrect.

Small Group Activity 2: Paint a Picture!
Standards-based Objectives: At the end of the lesson, the students are expected to demonstrate their community’s previous practices with 80% accuracy.

Learning Activity

Each group will be assigned one previous community practice. The students will create a tableau using props that must depict the assigned practice to them.

Role of Teacher

The teacher will go over previous practices and the community's history. The teacher will also assign a specific practice to each group and assist them in selecting any props they may require.

Role of Students

The students will take an active ro...