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Project Based Learning in the Elementary Classroom

What is it?

Project based learning is an instructional approach built on authentic learning activities that engage student interest and motivation.  The activities are designed to answer an everyday question or problem.

Student Role

  • Work in collaborative groups
  • Explore in order to learn
  • Create a product to show learning
  • Can choose topic or presentation method
  • Allowed to make mistakes

Teacher Role

  • Facilitates learning by guiding students to cover necessary TEKS
  • Creates guidelines for a project
  • Grades based on a rubric
  • Plans an "entry" event to initially engage students
  • Allow students to make mistakes

So now what?

Step 1: Design with the End in Mind
Determine what the objectives that will need to be covered in the students learning experience.  Find some real world situations that would encompass the TEKS you wish to cover.

Step 2: Entry Event
An entry event is a launch into your project that will engage learners.  This event should pose a real-world, relevant, problem or issue.

Examples:
  • A letter to the class...
  • Our community needs help...
  • Our principal needs help...
  • The class receives a phone call or Skype with a problem...
  • Teachers perform a skit...
Step 3:  Project Based Learning Begins!
Students will begin learning about their topic, and creating a chosen product.  Students can choose their own products, or teachers can provide ideas for them.

Further Resources

What is PBL and how do I get started?
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