My lesson was inspired by Hillsborough County's Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC) 5th grade Space Unit. I was very excited to have a Space themed LDC and to begin teaching with thematic units. I have researched thematic units and believe it is a best practice for students to retain information. Hillsborough County Public Schools creates scripted lessons for teachers in the LDC packets. I worked with my literacy content coach, Brian, to adapt the scripted lesson to meet the needs of my students. They were feeling overwhelmed and stressed with the LDC running 3 hours of their morning learning only about space. I modified the lesson by making connections to the Tampa Bay area to give my students that real-world connection. Posted below is my lesson plan followed by my reflections. Enjoy teachers!