Recently learners in iLEAD Adventures for Grade 1, led by iLEAD Online facilitator Cristie Platt, were tasked with an exciting project: “Create an interactive project to share how you can be a good citizen and how others can too!”
iLEAD Online 1st grader October H. responded to this challenge with spectacular creativity, choosing to design and build a colorful custom board game called “Candyland” to teach about civic responsibility.
A Sweet Path to Civic Responsibility
The “Candyland” game features a custom-built map that integrates the concept of good citizenship into the rules. Players begin with a “candy bar” and a gummy bear marker. While the basic mechanics involve rolling a die and moving spaces, the educational element lies in the Task Cards placed along the path.
At various spots, players must stop, read, and learn things they can do to be a good citizen. October shared an excellent example of these real-world actions: “Recycle trash that’s in your neighborhood.” This focus ensures the project is centered on tangible steps that define a helpful community member.
Interactive Learning and Community Building
October’s project also teaches about the power of collective effort through a sweet incentive system. Every time a player earns two candy bars, they get a new “gummy bear friend” who helps them “make a good community.” The ultimate goal is to finish first and receive the most gummy bears, highlighting the reward of being a community contributor.
This project perfectly demonstrates the beauty of project-based learning at iLEAD Online, showcasing learners’ deep understanding of core concepts through creative application.
Want to join the adventure? Learn more about Online Adventures for Grades TK-8 here!
About iLEAD Online:
iLEAD Online is a free public TK-12 school providing personalized online education with flexible schedules, allowing learners to pursue their passions like acting, athletics, and dance, alongside their studies. Founded in 2017, we emphasize individualized and project-based learning, leadership, and social-emotional growth. Learners benefit from technology, arts, and deeper learning, developing collaboration and critical thinking skills through our flexible virtual independent study model. Certified educators and college counselors offer personalized support, including guidance on college applications and financial aid. We also offer NCAA and UC a-g approved courses. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook and find us at www.ileadonline.org.