Hoboken Charter School
Journeys---The Hudson River: Exploring Communities up and down the
Journeys—The Hudson River is an integrated curriculum unit for third graders at Hoboken Charter School. It infuses character education through a yearlong interdisciplinary project teaching students about community, responsibility, civic engagement, and diversity. Students begin by developing an understanding of the Hudson based on their personal observations and experiences, and then by “traveling the river” they learn about other communities, including Lake Tear of Clouds, Glen Falls, Troy, Albany, and Hoboken/New York City. Students consider the diverse needs, experiences, and backgrounds of each area, which help them realize that “their river” is also “others’ river.” With the river serving as a catalyst for their exploration of the lives of others, students reconsider their perceptions of diversity and actual links to community members and geography that may not have been realized before. Character-rich books, related projects, and community presentations all help to emphasize the objective qualities.
CONTACT
Ms. Karen Lisa Shain
Elementary School Facilitator/Teacher
kshain@hobokencs.org