Project Based Learning

In my gifted/talented class, we have begun using project based learning. Let me back up a bit...we have mostly been doing units that had some project element to it....but I have been researching Project-Based Learning and decided that this was what my kiddos needed to be doing...at least a part of the day.

So....this week is the first lesson that have been delivered....yes...I know it has only been two days in this week yet....but because I serve a 6th grade class on Monday and 2nd through 6th grade on Tuesday that means I have actually delivered the beginning of both of the lessons that will be taught for my two Project-Based Learning units. My 4th through 6th grade are doing a unit on Heroes (classical & contemporary) and my 2nd and 3rd grade are doing a unit on how we communicate (this is a writing/art unit that requires them learn about vivid language(adjectives, similes, and metaphors). I must say today was an absolute blast. While I worked with the little ones....my older ones read a Greek myth and discussed the character traits of the characters that made them heroes. But that isn't all....I was worried this would be a little boring for them....they were so engaged....I was totally amazed!

So....I figure the rest of the week has to be good. I have only 2nd grade tomorrow....but there are 12 of them...so we will see how that goes. Then I have 3rd grade on Thursday. This one should be a piece of cake. Then Friday I will have 4th and 5th. This should prove to be another day filled with some awesome discussion about Greek myths.

I have to say....I am always amazed when my lessons go over so well....gifted/talented students can be some tough cookies sometimes.

What kind of day/week have you had? I would really like to know!

Dee