Making - Comic books and research in Grade 5 Social Studies

Ms. Dallas' grade 5 social studies classes are studying at least 6 global issues this year using a problem based learning approach.  Today, while in the library, we did some 'making' in the research process to give the students an opportunity to think creatively about a selected global issue by creating a superhero that could solve the problem with their super powers.  They drew and cut out their superhero to place in scenes for the comic. This 'making' activity is to help students to think divergently about an issue and to use their imagination to attack real issues.  This activity also allowed students to connect with the emotional side of a research topic. We will reuse our superheroes throughout the year to build on this introductory experience. Students used the library iPads and the app Comic Book.