Project Based Learning at AISV: How does culture shape our identities?

Exploring the Roots of "Self": The Grade 4 Culture & Identity Project

How does culture shape our identities?

This complex, guiding question served as the North Star for our Grade 4 students over the past several weeks. In a journey of self-discovery, students delved deep into their personal histories, uncovering the beautiful tapestry of backgrounds, experiences, and global connections that make each of them unique.

From Reflection to Creation

The project wasn’t just about looking backward; it was about understanding how we carry our heritage into the present. Students engaged in a variety of creative mediums to express their findings:

Self-Portraits: Visual representations of how students see themselves within their cultural contexts.

Narrative Collages: Vibrant assemblies of symbols, photographs, and artifacts that represent family traditions and personal milestones.

Written Reflections: Thoughtful essays exploring what it means to be part of a diverse international community like AISV.

A Celebration of Diversity

The culmination of this hard work was our Project Presentation Day. The hallways buzzed with excitement as students proudly showcased their work to peers, teachers, and families. The presentations highlighted meaningful ties that bind us together across borders. This project goes beyond the classroom - it fosters empathy, builds global citizenship, and reminds us that while our stories are different, our desire to belong is universal. Identity is a jigsaw puzzle; this project helped our students find the most important pieces.

Enjoy this glimpse into their presentations and the vibrant moments that made this project a milestone in their Grade 4 journey.

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