Student presentations of learning

Over the course of the year, I have been working with my staff to increase student engagement through a Concept Based Learning approach. This approach is driven by “big ideas” rather than subject-specific learning. To be successful, students must apply what they have learned to “real world” situations. I have led using this strategy through a variety of professional develop sessions with my staff, through co-teaching, and through our work every week during ‘Makerspace Monday’ time with students.

One of the challenges I have put to my staff this year is that they need to attempt two “boundary pushing” projects/activities/units in their classroom. They could work with me, a colleague, or myself. The stipulation what that I wanted to see the final product.  Last week, I was able to experience a great example of this happening. A grade 3 and 4 class combined to design and construct parking garages for toy cars. Students were required to design a multi-level facility, build a model of it out of cardboard and other supplies, and then present their finished product to their peers and invited family members. It was wonderful to see our students showing some great understanding and application of what they have been learning.

Based on what I have seen already this year, I am looking forward to what is yet to come!