Students learn when they are inspired to frame their own questions and pursue meaningful answers. The Authentic Experiences principle is where theory meets practice, inviting students to act on their learning and make real-world impact.
REAL WORLD TOPICS TOOL
“Bringing Learning to Life” by Nick Tuccinardi
Project-Based Learning unit and group project performance task, focused on groups of students “curating” the 2023 World’s Fair.
“Salir del hoyo: Using Students’ Experiences to Reflect on Challenges and Overcoming Them” by Daniela Escobar
A set of three lessons for a unit on Ain’t I a Woman by Sojourner Truth, including suggested multimedia resources.
WORK- & COMMUNITY-BASED LEARNING TOOL
“Building Empathy—Homelessness & The Struggle For Housing” by Lisa Brown
A lesson plan for a simulation that is intended to get students to think about issues people with low incomes experience when seeking housing. Students learn by role playing a person struggling with housing insecurity.
CULTURALLY-RESPONSIVE TEACHING TOOL
“Teaching Sojourner Truth’s Ain’t I a Woman Using a Critical Literacy Framework” by Marleine Marcelin
A set of three lessons for a unit on Ain’t I a Woman? by Sojourner Truth, including suggested multimedia resources.
“Introduction to the History of Housing Segregation” by Lise Brody
An extended lesson exploring the connections among Ta-Nehisi Coates’ “The Case for Reparations,” systems of oppression in the United States, and students’ personal experiences and assumptions.