In my family I am known for stating the obvious. Most times it goes over just fine ( other times...well you can imagine). I feel compelled to state the obvious here in my blog. Project-based inquiry learning works. In my own learning experience this week, I jumped from moderate interest in our comparative studies assignment to full engagement once I received an email from the contact I made in New Zealand.My third grade resource room students have also been hit with the same passion. Last week we began a Help for Haiti project. Together we came up with an idea to make and sell bracelets, giving the profits to the Red Cross. We have integrated many subjects into the project. For me the best "assessment" has been the comments in their journals such as "we are just kids and we can help" or "I feel happy to help but I am still sad that Haiti had an earthquake."
I write this in my blog, because I am wondering if anyone would like to join our project. We could use Skype as a tool to exchange information. My school email is dcollins@sad22.us.
Thank you for stating the obvious! I began service learning last year with some trepidation. My classes have just finished learning about modern slavery where the final assessment was the creation of a wiki to educate others about this issue. The motivation of creating a product to educate others far exceeded any traditional assessment which I could have created. In addition, many are planning on working after school (with no incentive) to raise both money and awareness for this issue.
ReplyDeleteSometimes the obvious should be stated...again and again. Thanks for saying it. Active engagement is a very important part of the curriculum...for adults or kids. How is the project coming along?
ReplyDeleteThank you both for the feedback. Tricia your project sounds very interesting. The bracelet project went great. The students were thrilled as they surpassed their goal of raising 100 dollars (by 228 dollars) I am still looking for a class that might like to "borrow" the idea. We have quite a few beads we can donate to get their project started.
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