How do I start Project Based Learning in my classroom?

As many teachers can attest, without many breaks, February is a month we often struggle through. This month’s resources are designed to inspire you to easily integrate engaging and challenging projects that will improve your students’ literacy, writing, speaking, and 21^st Century skills! February is also Black History Month, and what a great opportunity to let your students learn about heroic men and women that helped shape our country. Let’s jump into Project Based Learning to make Black History Month come alive!

• What is PBL? If you are new to Project Based Learning check out this article from the Buck Institute for Education.
• Where Do I Start? Check out this step by step guide from Performing in Education on how to get plan a PBL unit for your class.
• I need inspiration! Check out these 10 project ideas from Edutopia, or these 5 ideas from GettingSmart. 10 Project Ideas

Creating Meaningful Projects to Engage Students in Honor of Black History Month

 

Good teachers incorporate the rich history of African Americans throughout the school year, but Black History Month gives educators an opportunity to dig deeper! Project Based Learning can be a great way to encourage your students to not only dig deeper, but also make connections to the world we live in today. Below you’ll find some great resources and ideas!

 

Project Ideas:

• Living Museum – Challenge your students to become an important figure from history. Students research the life and impact of an important historical figure and create a display and brief oral presentation that conveys the impact of this person’s life. They will role play this person in a “living museum” at your school. Other students & parents will be encouraged to walk through the museum to hear the story of each important hero.
• Digital Storytelling– Students create a digital story about a defining moment, message, or lesson from a historical figure of their choosing. Students collect images, record voice overs, and create a final film product to be presented on the big screen for their parents or school community at a digital storytelling exhibition night at your school.
• Check out 4 other Civil Rights themed project ideas from the Buck Institute for Education.

Resources:

• Google has created an entire site devoted to Black History & Culture! We especially love the online exhibits, videos, and collections. This is the perfect resource to explore with your students!
• Check out this Edutopia article with excellent resources for your students to dig deeper into Black History Month.
• Explore these “Do’s and Don’ts of Teaching Black History”

Free Resource Alert!

Hess is giving away 1,000 free toy truck STEM kits! Click the image below to apply. Also check out their free STEM curriculum resources!

 

 

 

 

 

 

Check out these college scholarship options available through the League of Christian Schools!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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