English, Foreign Languages, Reading or Language Arts
Students will watch a film, Barrio de Paz, about peace worker Nelsa Libertad Curbelo from Guayaquil, Ecuador and the city’s gang youth, who have left behind a life of crime to come together and provide services to their struggling community and explore themes of conflict resolution, youth empowerment, and the power of love versus violence.
Students will watch a film, Mr. Happy Man, about 88-year-old Bermudian Johnny Barnes, who devotes six hours each day to an endearing traffic ritual, and will identify what things in life aid in creating a positive attitude.
English, Environmental Education, Geography, History, Social Studies
Increasing noise pollution and the loss of silence in our modern world significantly impacts people as well as the environment. Learning how to listen may be one solution.
Students will watch a VR/360 film, Sanctuaries of Silence, about acoustic ecologist Gordon Hempton as he takes them on an immersive journey into the Hoh Rain Forest in Washington State, one of the quietest places in North America. Students will explore themes of listening, human connection to the environment, and the effects of modernization.
Students will watch a film, Soleá, about Spanish flamenco guitarist Juan Ramírez and explore the themes of creative expression and dedication and commitment.
Young Native Alaskans in rural villages face unique challenges due to physical isolation and the loss of traditional cultural support. Unifying projects or activities—such as basketball— can provide a lifeline for youth and communities
Students will watch a film, “I Am Yup’ik” about a 16-year-old named Byron Nicholai, a basketball player who lives in a tiny village in western Alaska and explore themes of identity, resilience, and youth empowerment.