Really can see the growth!!!

It's amazing to see how far we have all come in the Theory class this semester, front-loaded semester. It was interesting to see how we took ideas from one another and improved upon the glitches along the way. Part of me was relieved to go early on in the semester, but the other side thinks of how I could have improved had my group presented at the end.

The outcome is still the same, I learned and the group learned in the process. I am eager to try and apply some of the theories, but it can be difficult knowing which theory is best to use at the time. I need a good theory cheat sheet I guess, maybe a summer project idea!!!!

Problem Based Learning

It's come to that time of year that us Talent21 schools have to complete our Problem Based Learning Unit. We chose to have students tackle the problem of reducing their ecological footprint. It's truly hard to let 11 and 12 year olds go off on their own and tackle this huge project. We decided to not create a sample project, thinking that they would copy it. We left the requirements loose so that their creativity would flow. How do you hold those students accountable who won't be excited about tackling the problem?

We are planning rewards and a kick off assembly, but it can be tough taking a step back and letting the students do the driving. I am very interested to see what they learn. We have to plan curriculum for next year and if anyone knows of any great PD for PBL please let me know.