In this field study unit, students learn about Down Syndrome through memoirs, personal stories, research, seminars, guest speakers, etc. Unit begins with a kick-off called “Pipe Cleaner Similarities”, and then a community building activity called “Claim It”. Students are assigned readings and research as homework which they then share in jigsaw groups, seminar discussions, etc. Later, students begin to plan an evening event for local Down Syndrome teens. My group chose to plan a luau under the stars event at our local Gigi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Awareness center. The students made a dance music play list, decorated to emulate an evening Hawaiian beach, had a pinata, planned and played games, made and served Hawaiian dishes, limbo’d, etc. All of the teens had a great time, and we have planned it again for next year.
