The end of the year for me is all about ENGAGEMENT. I do my best to structure lessons around what I know interests the students. Allowing students to create their own superhero is always a hit! So instead of getting an “ugh” when they are hear what we are doing for the day, I get a “yes!” Not every lesson can provoke the “yes!” But I find the more that do, the more enjoyable for both me and the kids.
In keeping with this theme, I developed a Superhero unit that also incorporated technology skills. It is by far my second graders’ favorite unit of the year. Some years, I start off Library Media with this unit and in some years I save it for the end! Either way, it produces excitement in the students.
Create Your Own Superhero
Day 1
I read one of my favorite superhero books to the students; Superhero School by: Aaron Reynolds. But you can really choose any superhero book that you have in your library.
As you read the story, ask students to raise their hand whenever they hear a new super power.
After reading the story, we discuss real superheroes that your students will know and love. On Day 1, I focus the students on coming up with original names for their superheroes, creating their super powers and origin stories. Before students set out to do this on their own, we discuss the powers and origin stories of Superman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and Captain America. The students love the chance to discuss their favorite heroes in class!
I created a PowerPoint to guide them along in this process.
Day 2
On the second day, I focus the students on completing the rest of the writing for the Superheroes. Using the PowerPoint, you can introduce each portion of the writing with the Superheroes that the students already know.
Day 3
During the third class, we focus on creating our Superhero using an online website. I always use the website Style a Hero because I know all of the content is appropriate. There are some really awesome super hero creator programs out there, but for the most part, they are probably better suited for 3rd grade and up.
After students create their superheroes, I also have them screen shot it and save the image in a Google Doc. The process of teaching them how to screenshot, copy the image and paste it does take some time, so I allow about 5-10 minutes for that!
Day 4
During this class, I have students start putting their writing into a Slideshow template. I share a template with them through Google Classroom. When I was in a school where I didn’t have Google Classroom, I physically dragged the template from my flash drive to the students desktop or downloaded it to the student computers through my email. These methods take extra time but they are doable.
After your students complete the Slideshow, they can either present the slideshow OR you can print everything for them to create Superhero posters. It really depends on the time and resources you have! The kids will enjoy either option!
Click here for everything you need to get started!
