In this collaborative project between humanities and chemistry, sophomores were asked to design a fashion-forward wearable art outfit made from found, upcycled, or symbolic materials to bring awareness to an environmental and/or ethical issue in the fashion industry. Answering the essential question “What were the unintended consequences of the Industrial Revolution?” students worked in groups to design and produce their provocative garments, which were unveiled at a student-curated fashion show. Students also documented their learning in both classes via Instagram accounts, essays, data collection, and art pieces.
Teacher Reflection
I learned that including student voice and giving them the opportunity to take ownership of the project, allowed for a project that had so much more impact and buy in than if we were to do the project the way we had initially planned. I believe that teachers would want the big performance at exhibition and the tie in to content. Something I think I am most proud of is that we didn’t sacrifice content to do such a big exhibition if anything it fulled the build up to their work time and getting the show ready. In the next iteration we will be include a media component to all groups where they own the whole part of their show, have past participants become coaches, and look into a community partner that connects with chemistry that could elevate that part of the experience.
—Zak Sanders
Student Reflection
“[My favorite part of the semester was] probably the fashion project because it was super fun and I felt like this project was more professional than the others exhibitions i’ve had.
—Analeigh L
