Middle Grades in Southern Appalachia: Developing a Thanksgiving Themed Cross Curricular Approach to Teaching the International System of Units

Gary Padgett, Hongxia Zhao, Jonghan An, Seongwoo Kim, Yire Seo, Helen Yu, Mollie Vick, Cheney Suggs

Abstract


In the United States, the continued reliance on non-SI (International System of Units) measurements presents a challenge for students in STEM-related fields. This disconnect can hinder conceptual understanding and career readiness. This study explores how a multidisciplinary, culturally grounded approach to teaching unit conversion can enhance student engagement and comprehension. Conducted in the Southern Appalachian region, the project integrated math, science, English Language Arts, and history through a cross-curricular lesson centered around a widely celebrated national holiday. By incorporating local recipes and cultural traditions, the lesson demonstrated the real-world relevance of SI measurements. The study was guided by three research questions focused on conceptual understanding, instructional opportunities, and the challenges of designing culturally responsive, interdisciplinary curriculum. This work contributes to the fields of STEM/STEAM education and interdisciplinary pedagogy and offers a replicable framework for integrating SI instruction into regionally relevant lessons

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References


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DOI: https://doi.org/10.51383/jesma.2025.125

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