Objective

By the end of this lesson, Jordan will create a detailed family tree, learn how to locate hard-to-find relatives, and develop skills in reading, spelling, ASL, life skills, critical thinking, logic, common sense, and health. This will enable Jordan to understand family connections and the importance of communication within a family structure.

Materials and Prep

• Pencil and paper for drawing the family tree
• Access to a computer or smartphone for online research
• Notebooks for notes
• Markers or colored pencils for decorating the family tree
• Resources for learning basic ASL (American Sign Language) signs related to family
• Access to health and wellness articles or videos

Before starting, ensure that Jordan understands the basic structure of a family tree and has a list of known family members to begin with. It might be helpful to discuss the importance of family history and how it shapes identity.

Activities

• Create a Family Tree:

  Jordan will draw a family tree starting with themselves and branching out to parents, grandparents, and any known relatives. Encourage creativity by using colors and symbols to represent different family members.

• Research Hard-to-Find Relatives:

  Using online resources, Jordan will search for information about relatives who may be difficult to locate. This could include searching social media, genealogy websites, or public records.

• Learn ASL Signs for Family:

  Jordan will learn basic ASL signs related to family members (e.g., mom, dad, brother, sister). This will help in understanding non-verbal communication and inclusivity.

• Health and Family Dynamics Discussion:

  Jordan will read an article or watch a video about the importance of family health and wellness, discussing how family relationships can impact mental and physical health.

• Logic and Critical Thinking Exercises:

  Jordan will engage in logic puzzles or games that relate to family scenarios, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Talking Points

• "Why do you think understanding your family tree is important? It helps us know where we come from and who we are."
• "What challenges do you think people face when trying to find relatives? Sometimes, records can be lost or people may have moved."
• "How can learning ASL help you connect with others? It allows you to communicate with people who are deaf or hard of hearing."
• "In what ways can family dynamics affect our health? Strong family support can lead to better mental health."
• "Can you think of a time when logic helped you solve a problem? Logic is a valuable skill in everyday situations."