Based on student feedback from our Creative Connections Clubs, we recognized the importance of providing connected and meaningful learning experiences to increase student engagement in learning. Using a collaborative planning model, classroom teachers and the resource team co-planned and co-taught a series of lessons and learning experiences that wove together cross-curricular competencies in English Language Arts and Socials Studies.

Through small group reading, students learned strategies for decoding and developed background knowledge and vocabulary through hands-on meaningful experiences, which led to an increased in comprehension. Using the thinking routine, KWL, students made their thinking visible and shared their ideas and wonders with each other. Students learned about Coast Salish cultures and developed connections to land and Place through intentional reading instruction. They celebrated their learning with weaving, art, writing activities, ADST projects, and food tasting.