The Superhero project explored what superhero qualities each student possessed and how these unique “superpowers” contribute to our classroom and school community. The students investigated fictional superheroes and found a common theme in their powers. The students examined everyday superheroes in their community, learning about their different jobs and responsibilities. Each first grader considered the questions: What super qualities can you bring to better our community? How do superheroes work together? Students designed and made a costume to represent their superpower. The children also created social stories featuring their superpower in a comic book format. The stories were then made into short films with the students role playing in their superhero costume. These films and the students’ experiences were then shared at a school gathering.

Teacher Reflections:

There were several things we loved about this project. An absolute highlight was the excitement in the children’s faces when they realized that everyone possesses a superpower and no matter how old you are, you can make a difference. We often found them using their superpowers like Grit Girl, Thinking Man and Happiness Gal on the playground or during class time when no one was watching. At a table you would hear “Don’t give up, use grit!” when participating in a difficult math activity or “I’ll get a band-aid!” as Helpful Boy ran off to help a friend who had fallen down on the blacktop. It empowered the children to take ownership in making a positive change in their classroom and school.

Student Reflections:

The Superhero project taught me that I should help people and I should take big risks for the people I care for.

—Nia

I learned that superheroes are real and help us everyday like police officers and firefighters. Everyone is a superhero!

—Giovanni

To learn more about this project and others, visit
HighTechHigh.org/schools/HTEX/?show=projects