Elementary Lessons
Creative Problem Solving with Joshua Miele and Krishna Washburn
2nd to 4th grade • STEM, ELA, Creative Problem Solving
Creative Problem Solving with Joshua Miele and Krishna Washburn PDF
Summary:
Students will explore problem-solving by learning how scientist Joshua Miele and ballerina Krishna Washburn overcame challenges. They will then create their own invention - either practical or imaginative - through drawing, writing, or crafting a model. Afterward, they will be paired with a student interviewer who will either conduct a class interview or write a news article about their invention.
Thukpa for All - Reading Guide and Lesson Plan that Addresses the Social Model of Disability
2nd - 5th grade • English Language Arts (ELA), Geography
Thukpa for All - Reading Guide and Lesson Plan that Addresses the Social Model of Disability PDF
Summary:
Students or teachers read Thukpa for All by Praba Ram and Sheela Preuitt and consider how the story relates to the social model of disability.
Mapping the Travels of James Holman - Using a Political Map of the World
3rd grade • Geography, History, Map Skills
Mapping the Travels of James Holman - Using a Political Map of the World Lesson PDF
Summary:
NOTE - This lesson works best following a general introduction about using a Political World Map
This lesson introduces students to James Holman, a blind world traveler and travel writer. He became the first blind person recognized for traveling around the world solo in 1832. He wrote extensively about his travels. Students will practice using a World Political Map to locate where he traveled. This exercise also demonstrates one way we can use maps to help us as we study history.
Middle and High School Lessons
Disability Data Art
7th - 10th grade • STEM, ART
Disability Data Art Lesson PDF
Summary:
In this lesson, students will learn about data art, an art form that takes scientific or mathematical data and translates it into a visual art form such as a painting, drawing or sculpture. Using disability related statistical data from provided sources, they will create their own piece of data art. The students will also write short reflections on the artwork that they create. This lesson can function both as a standalone art exercise, or may be a useful closing exercise for a unit in math or science that focuses on statistics.
History of Eyeglasses: The Importance of Adaptive Equipment
9th - 12th grade • Geography, History, Engineering/STEM
History of Eyeglasses: The Importance of Adaptive Equipment Lesson PDF
Summary:
In this lesson, students will learn about science, history and geography related to eyeglasses. First, they will consider the history of eyeglasses, their impact on vision impairments, and how they are so widespread in America (and other high-income countries) that wearing them is rarely considered to indicate a vision issue; in fact, they are often fashion statements. Then they will explore how access to glasses differs around the world, specifically considering barriers that prevent access. Finally, they will choose their own adaptive device (a list of ideas is provided, but students are welcome to choose their own), and create an infographic that explains: the important benefits to widespread usage of their chosen device, current barriers, and suggest possible solutions.
Disability Rights as Human Rights: The Role of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD)
7th - 12th grades • Civics & Government/Political Science, Geography
Summary:
Through reading selections of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), students will explore the role of international agreements in shaping national policies. They will engage with key human rights vocabulary, analyze how the CRPD has influenced disability rights worldwide, and explore issues pertaining to US non-ratification. This lesson encourages critical thinking about disability as a civic and human rights issue, emphasizing the responsibilities of governments in upholding equality and justice. Differentiation strategies for middle vs high school students would include using the original vs easy-read version of the text, as well as differentiated discussion questions.