Project-Based Learning

Goal:

You will investigate and answer a question of your choosing. As part of the project, you will have to produce products which demonstrate your learning and communicate what you have learned to others. You will be able to choose what types of products you want to create, with some limitations, and you will consult with me at every stage of this project. Each product should demonstrate your understanding of the question and the issues surrounding it.

Timeline:

This project will begin immediately and will continue through the semester. You will need to submit portions of your project periodically according to a schedule we will set together. You will be given a few days of class time each month but the expectation is that much of the work will be done independently. The due date is the last day of classes.

Assessment and Evaluation:

The project will be evaluated based on a combination of formative and summative assessments. All the assignments and student-teacher consultations will be included in the formative mark. You will receive these marks as assignments are completed. Following a formative assessment, you will have the opportunity to improve your documents and resubmit as part of the final project. Your final presentation, in whatever form it takes, will be given a summative mark. In total, the project is worth 20% of your overall mark.

Mandatory aspects of the PBL :

1. Four products completed during the term. These products must include the completed assignment sheets provided, which are to be submitted electronically.

2. Informal presentations/updates. You will be expected to update me on your progress regularly. We will set a weekly or biweekly schedule for these updates. Sometimes an update can be as simply as completing a Student Learning Log. You might also be expected to update the class on your progress occasionally.

3. A final presentation.

Tasks/Products ideas:

This list is meant to provide ideas; you are free to be creative but be sure to have the product approved by me before you proceed. This will avoid any miscommunication and disappointments.

· Video

· Interview

· Analysis

· Lesson plan or activity

· Poster

· Prototype/model

· Music

· Letter

· Experiment

· Current literature on topic

· Newsletter

· Journal

Possible topics to consider:

1. Composting

2. Energy conservation

3. Waste reduction

4. Water protection

5. Air quality improvement

6. Beautification

7. Recycling