Overview How safe are our neighborhood playgrounds? Using the latest statistics from the National Program for Playground Safety, students discover that most of the nation's playgrounds rate only a C. High schoolers observe and report on children at local playgrounds. They research the Internet for safety tips and checklists. Then, they share their word-processed pamphlets, flyers or computer slide shows with high school peers and children from a neighborhood day care center. Demonstrating the role of geometry in construction, students design, sketch and choose recycled materials to build 3-D models. They also use computer software to draw virtual playgrounds and present these products to students and community leaders during Playground Safety Week and at a school based learning festival.
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Learning Standards Math |
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| • | Collect, organize & describe data. |
| • | Construct, read & interpret data. |
| • | Apply knowledge of measurement in the construction of two & three-dimensional figures. |
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Learning Standards Science |
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| • | Connect study of science & technology to a variety of career opportunities. |
| • | Communicate results obtained from research through models & illustrations. |
| • | Use proper technologies to present information effectively. |
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Learning Standards English Language Arts |
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| • | Make effective presentations. |
| • | Understand & use the writing process effectively. |
| • | Use various formats & technology to complete & enhance work. |
| • | Use telecommunications to share information & ideas. |
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School to Career Competencies |
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| • | Collect, Organize & Analyze Information. |
| • | Identify & Solve Problems. |
| • | Use Technology. |
| • | Manage Time. |
| • | Initiate & Complete Projects. |
| • | Understand All Aspects of the Industry. |
| • | Interact with Others & Act Professionally. |
Assessment Teachers and students follow national standards in ongoing assessment of playground equipment, questions on playground safety, governmental regulations, and student designed and executed models. They also form response groups to evaluate products and presentations while regularly reflecting on sharing sessions. Teacher evaluates students' 3-D models for practical applications of geometric theorems and understandings of geometric applications and theorems such as the Pythagorean Theorem, axis or lines of symmetry, and the constant of proportionality.
Software or Materials Used Students use graphic calculator to draw geometric figures and use integrated software: Microsoft Office (Word, PowerPoint and Excel) for reports and presentations. They also use Internet to search designs and agencies that promote playground safety
Web Sites Student List of Safe Playground Web Sites
Keywords Service
Learning, Playground Safety, Guidelines for Playground Safety Compliance,
Playground Fact Sheet, Playground Safety Check List, Playground Safety
Tips; Safe Playground Equipment
Final Words Students play major roles in promoting community safety when they:
- Help neighbors recognize potential playground dangers.
- Identify the most common playground problems.
- Explain how to fix them.
- Emphasize the importance of playground supervision.
- Share tips on how to develop "SAFE" playgrounds.
Teacher Tip The 3-D playground model helps students understand how mathematics, especially geometry, applies to architectural designs in building skyscrapers and other structures.
E-mail contact Christina Yee cyee@boston.k12.ma.us
Teacher Bio Christina Yee, a bilingual science, math and computer technology teacher at Charlestown High School, has received 2 grants from the Schott Gender Equity Mini-Grant. She and her students have participated in Jump Start Technology mini courses through a Verizon EdLink Grant with Bunker Hill Community College. Christina is a certified Microsoft Office User Specialist and also a Cisco Networking Academy instructor. Top priorities for this teacher: 1. Prepare bilingual students with technology skills essential for post-secondary education success. 2. Encourage them to pursue science and technology careers. 3. Demonstrate how to actively contribute to the community.
Subject Areas Math, Science, English Language Arts, Technology
Grade Levels 9 -12
Students Bilingual students, non bilingual students, children from day care center
