Project Based Learning at Moorefield Station Elementary

PBL Overview A systematic teaching method that engages learners in acquiring knowledge and skills through an extended inquiry process structured around complex, relevant questions, carefully designed products, and authentic tasks.

Break It Down ~Real Life Projects ~Students collaborate ~Student driven ~Inquiry based ~ Cross Curricular ~ Regular Student Reflection ~Community Connection and Involvement ~ Active Role for Parents ~ Authentic Assessments ~Allows for Small Group Instruction

Learning Environment ~Non-Traditional Seating -tables, foam blocks, carpets, lighting ~Mobile Classroom with Shared Spaces ~Creating Critical Friendships ~Fluid Daily Schedule ~Community Supply

Classroom Expectations ~Fosters Meaningful Discussions ~Creating Critical Friendships ~Ownership of Work ~Shared Leadership ~Teamwork ~Collective Responsibilities

BYOT ~Not Officially a BYOT in LCPS ~Not Required but Encouraged ~Acceptable Devices- tablets, laptops, iPads, slates ~Parents will be given apps used during instruction that can be downloaded for free

Curriculum ~All state and county standards will be addressed ~County pacing might be altered ~Your students will be learning the standards in a more integrated fashion...timing might not follow other traditional classrooms. ~Direct instruction will still be provided throughout the day

Assessment ~Pre-Assessments will be given prior to starting units to gather baseline data ~That data will drive instructional strategies and grouping ~Post-Assessments will then be administered to check for growth

Assessment ~Students will still participate in DRA, PALS, SOLs ~Enrichment opportunities will take place during each unit

Phoenix - Online Gradebook ~New Report Card System will implemented county wide ~Project assignments could be created at the beginning of the unit but grades may will be gradually entered as projects are completed ~Some students might be “exempt” from assignments due to the nature of the project

Homework ~ Format and Nature of homework will vary depending on individualized student need and project progression ~Examples include: blogging, research, direct review of concepts, reading

How YOU can help? ~For this to be successful we need buy in from all stakeholders ~ Community, Parents, LCPS, MSE ~Let’s brainstorm some ways….

How can YOU help? ~Community Connections ~Parent Talent(doctor, vet, construction, crafty) ~Monetary Donations - Corporate Matching ~Volunteer Time- copying, laminating, blogging, editing, working with students ~Material Donations