PBL - aka Let the students create stuff

The light at the end of the summer training tunnel this summer was Project Based Learning.

I found a book at a district training that I really liked, so I bought my own copy.  Basically, it's a fun way to teach by giving choices to the students.  Right now, I'm only requiring my students choose 1 of 4 assignments.  Eventually, they will have to choose 2 of 6, or 4 of 8 projects.

While the book gives great ideas, the due dates are not always realistic for our pacing guide.  Literally, some projects take weeks.

Therefore, I give choices which take a day, maybe two at the most.

So far, the feedback from students has been very positive.  The artsy students relish the opportunities to create drawings and comic strips.  The writers love to tell a story, and the math aces enjoy creating maps and plans.

My takeaway for you:  give up a little control and give choices where possible.  You can really learn a lot about your students, and they will work hard to keep those choices coming.

Peace

"People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."  - Maya Angelou