Project-Based Learning (PBL) Plan: The Doll Test and Its Impact

1. Project Overview

Project Title: Understanding Identity: The Doll Test and Segregation

Driving Question: How did the Doll Test influence the fight for equality in education, and what does it teach us about race and identity today?

Project Summary: Students will explore the historical significance of the Doll Test conducted by Dr. Kenneth and Dr. Mamie Clark. They will analyze its impact on the Brown v. Board of Education case and examine its representation in Carole Boston Weatherford's book. Students will engage in discussions, create art projects, and present their findings to develop a deeper understanding of race, identity, and the implications of segregation.

Real-World Connection: This project connects to ongoing discussions about race and identity in our society, allowing students to understand historical contexts and their relevance today.

2. Learning Objectives & Prior Knowledge

Essential Learning Goals:

• Analyze historical events and their significance.
• Develop critical thinking skills regarding race and identity.
• Enhance reading comprehension and interpretation of literature.
• Collaborate with peers to communicate ideas effectively.

Relevant Prior Knowledge:

• Basic understanding of segregation and civil rights.
• Familiarity with the concept of identity and self-awareness.
• Experience with simple research skills and group projects.

Scaffolding Plan:

• Conduct mini-lessons on the history of segregation and the civil rights movement.
• Provide guided research sessions using age-appropriate resources.
• Use collaborative activities to encourage peer learning.

3. Inquiry & Research Process

Key Questions for Exploration:

• What was the Doll Test and what did it reveal about children’s perceptions of race?
• How did the results of the Doll Test influence the Brown v. Board of Education decision?
• In what ways does Weatherford’s book represent the themes of race and identity?

Research & Investigation Activities:

• Read age-appropriate excerpts from Weatherford's book.
• Watch videos that explain the Doll Test and its significance.
• Conduct interviews with family members about their perceptions of race and identity.

Student Choice & Voice:

• Students can choose to investigate different aspects of the Doll Test and its impact, including creating art projects, posters, or digital presentations.

4. Project Timeline & Milestones

Project Duration: 4 weeks

Major Phases & Deadlines:

• Phase 1: Project Launch & Exploration (Week 1)

• Introduce the project and discuss the Doll Test.

• Build excitement through storytelling and video clips.

• Phase 2: Research & Skill Building (Week 2)

• Conduct guided research sessions.

• Engage in discussions about findings.

• Phase 3: Creation & Prototyping (Week 3)

• Develop art projects or presentations based on research.

• Peer review sessions to refine work.

• Phase 4: Presentation & Reflection (Week 4)

• Present projects to the class or school community.

• Reflect on learning and the importance of the project.

5. Differentiation & Support Strategies

Content Differentiation:

• Provide varied reading materials, including simpler texts and visual aids.
• Use videos to support understanding of complex concepts.

Process Differentiation:

• Implement flexible grouping for research and discussions.
• Offer choice in how students can explore their topics (e.g., through art, writing, or digital media).

Product Differentiation:

• Allow students to demonstrate their learning through different formats: presentations, posters, short films, or written essays.

Collaboration & Peer Support:

• Structure collaborative groups with defined roles (researcher, presenter, artist).
• Encourage peer feedback sessions to promote accountability.

6. Assessment & Reflection

Formative Assessment:

• Monitor progress through check-ins and peer feedback.
• Conduct teacher conferences to discuss student development.

Summative Assessment:

• Assess final projects using a rubric that includes creativity, understanding of content, and presentation skills.

Self & Peer Reflection:

• Students will answer questions such as:
• What did I learn about race and identity?
• How did I contribute to my group's project?
• What would I do differently next time?

Teacher Reflection & Next Steps:

• Gather student feedback on the project to identify strengths and areas for improvement.
• Plan adjustments for future iterations based on outcomes and engagement levels.

7. Resources & Tools

Materials & Supplies Needed:

• Art supplies (paper, markers, paint)
• Access to books, articles, and videos about the Doll Test and segregation.

Technology Integration:

• Utilize digital tools such as Google Slides for presentations and online research databases for information gathering.

Community & Expert Connections:

• Invite local historians or civil rights activists to speak with students.
• Plan a field trip to a local museum that focuses on civil rights and history.