The Lantern Project

In this project, the entire 6th grade learned about geometry, unit rate, expenses and revenue by designing and creating their own paper lanterns. At the same time, students explored various cultures around the world through the lens of important global issues. Their final product was an original paper lantern that was to be part of an auction to raise awareness and funds for a community improvement project of their choice through the non-profit organization, Lantern Projects. The exhibition took place at Centro Cultural de la Raza in Balboa Park.

Teacher Reflection:

It was so exciting to see students motivated to learn math so they could use it to create something beautiful. This project incorporated so many academic and non-academic skills from pre-algebra concepts of profit analysis, to persuasive writing, to craftsmanship, and even empathy building. At exhibition the students were proud of their work and the learning behind it.

Student Reflection:

My favorite part about this project was how diverse the lanterns were, whether in size, color, or shape. Individually each one came out creative!

—Ajok T

The Lantern Project was based around the organization The Lantern Project, which lists countries, each with their own problem and solution. The problems ranged from human trafficking in Cambodia to starving mothers and children in Kenya. The Lantern Project is original in the sense that each student got to choose their part of the world that they want to help. At the same time, students got to learn about geometry by designing their own paper lantern. The students of the team collectively loved how their eyes were opened to the world around them.

—Olivia H To learn more about this project and others, visit LanternProject.Weebly.com