The first unit in the Freedom Mapping Project is one that centers community building identity exploration.  This work requires that teachers are mindful of the nuances of the specific community they serve, and the intersecting, multifaceted identities of the students in their classrooms.

While the following five units that comprise the Freedom Mapping Project are highly structured, the course designers feel that the “Identity Unit” should not be.  We recommend that you build community and explore personal identity in the manner that is productive for your specific place.  Therefore “Unit 1: Identity” of the Freedom Mapping Project only provides educators with a blank Instructional Design Model (IDM) template, and links to a few thoughtful Identity-centered projects we’ve seen in action.

This unit needs to be about you as an educator, and the experiences of the young people you serve.  This is a relationship built on communication, trust, and vulnerability.  We hope you cultivate these authentically, and on your own terms.