What was your driving question?
What is the history and significance of the Yurt?
Grades Involved
5th through 8th
How did this project connect to your local or regional community?
Our class is moving into Yurt classrooms this year. We wanted to learn about the space we are going to learn in as preparation. The learning will be presented at the first open house in our new classrooms. 
What PBE principles were highlighted in this project?
Design Thinking, Local to Global, Interdisciplinary Approach
Project Description
Students studied the history of yurts and traced them back to ancient Mongolia. Their study then delved into Mongolian history, culture, ecology, and specific details about yurts. Students took their knowledge to create a model replica of a yurt and labeled the key features and their significance. Models were then incorporated into dioramas that depicted the Mongolian landscape. The dioramas were finalized with an infographic backdrop that cataloged Mongolian culture, traditions, history, and ecology.
How did this positively impact the community? How was it shared?
Students recognized the connection between their lives and other cultures around the world. Dioramas will be shared with the community at the open house for our new classrooms.
Reflection: What was the biggest challenge? What was the most rewarding aspect of this project?
Time constraints and delayed presentation were challenging. The final products turned out great! Awesome incorporation of design thinking and creative expression.
Any advice for a teacher or student that is implementing a PBE project for the first time?
This project made the local-to-global connection very easy and relevant. Find those areas where you can connect to other cultures or countries and run with them.
