The purpose of this project is to engage fifth-grade students in a meaningful exploration of decision-making through personal narratives, integrating their learning from the DARE program. By crafting narratives that incorporate personal or imagined experiences, students will apply the DARE decision-making model to illustrate how its principles can guide better choices in daily life. This project aims to enhance students' narrative writing skills, encourage reflection on personal growth, and foster a deeper understanding of how their experiences align with DARE values. Through this process, students will develop their ability to communicate effectively, using standard English grammar and conventions, while gaining insights into applying these principles in future real-life scenarios.

In this project, students will learn to apply the DARE decision-making model to enhance their understanding of personal decision-making processes. They will explore how personal experiences shape decision-making and align with DARE principles. Students will develop skills in writing personal narratives, focusing on descriptive details, clear sequences, and effective writing techniques to convey experiences. They will practice using standard English grammar and conventions, ensuring clear communication in their narratives. Through reflection, students will identify how their experiences align with DARE principles and how these insights can be applied in future scenarios. They will engage in critique and revision, utilizing feedback and a rubric to refine their narratives, ensuring coherence and the integration of personal experiences with the DARE model.

Students will create a personal narrative that incorporates the DARE decision-making model, either by recounting a real-life experience or crafting an imagined scenario that demonstrates the application of DARE principles. This narrative will be a polished piece of writing that showcases their understanding of narrative techniques, descriptive details, and clear event sequences. Additionally, students will maintain a reflective journal where they document their learning journey, capturing insights into their decision-making processes and personal growth. This journal will serve as a tool for self-assessment and reflection, allowing students to articulate how their experiences and the DARE principles intersect and how they plan to apply these insights in future situations. The project will culminate in a reflective circle where students share their narratives and reflections, fostering a community of learning and personal development.

To kick off the project, start with an engaging role-play activity. Present students with a scenario where they must make a decision using the DARE decision-making model. For example, create a situation where a student is faced with peer pressure to make a risky choice. Divide the class into small groups and have each group act out the scenario, using the DARE model to guide their decision-making process. After each group presents, facilitate a class discussion on how the DARE principles were applied and how personal experiences might influence their decisions. This interactive launch will not only introduce the DARE model in a relatable context but also set the stage for students to think about how their personal narratives can reflect these decision-making principles.

To exhibit the culmination of this project, organize a "DARE Narrative Showcase" event where students present their personal narratives to an audience of peers, teachers, and parents. Each student can read their narrative aloud, highlighting how they integrated the DARE decision-making model into their story. This can be followed by a Q&A session where the audience can ask questions about the students' decision-making processes and the impact of the DARE principles on their narratives. Additionally, create a display of students' written narratives in the school hallway or library, allowing the school community to read and appreciate the students' work. This exhibition not only celebrates their writing achievements but also reinforces the importance of decision-making skills in everyday life.