Project-Based Learning at Early Elementary

by peerdrivenpro | May 12, 2021

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Take this Course 70 minutes (1.15 hours)

Managing complex projects with kindergarteners and first graders may seem difficult, but it’s a task that Jody Jones has embraced for years. Her students have produced community art shows, hosted civil rights marches, and advocated for the preservation of trees on school property. Gain valuable insights on project-based learning with this course featuring a seasoned dual language teacher.

Participants will receive a certificate of completion reflecting a total course time of 70 minutes (1.15 hours) and course completion on a provided transcript.

Course Content

Introduction

Before You Begin: Why should I do this? 3:07

There's no denying that project-based learning is a lot of work. That's why it's important to have the many benefits at the forefront of your mind as you start the journey.

Two Quotes to Guide Your Journey 5:24 Sample Lesson

Discover the two quotes that guide Jones’s practice, and consider their relevance to project-based learning as she describes two concepts that she considers daily. (Note: this conversation is an excerpt from an original podcast).

Laying the Groundwork

The Sled Dog Analogy 4:25

We're not saying that kindergartners are initially like unwieldy puppies, but ...

Intro to Routines and Cues 4:42

You can't meet an ambitious goal without a generous dose of strategy. Go inside Jones’s thought process as she shares the importance of creating consistent routines before taking on complex projects.

Examples of Cues and Transitions 5:08

You, too, can use the rattle of "the snake" to arrest the attention of five- and six-year-old students. (It's not as scary as it sounds).

The Cleanup Routine 3:52

If you plan on going home this evening, don't neglect this critical routine.

Chaos and Routine 3:42

The best part of mastering a rule is being allowed to break it. Jones explains how a routine can make room for chaos.

Example Projects

How to Choose a Project 1:18

Understand the key components of a worthwhile project as Jones and offers ideas on choosing a project. Steal them if you want!

Project Examples – Start Small 4:17

You have to walk before you can run, and Jones offers a strategic, yet simple, example of a great "small" project to get you started.

Project Examples – Raise the Stakes 5:25

When you're ready for a bit more, consider a project similar to this town hall conducted by Jones's students.

Pace Yourself 2:47 Sample Lesson

Though the benefits of project-based learning outweigh the costs, it's important to remember to avoid burnout. Take it slow out there.

Preparation

Plan a Trip! 2:39

Don't know where to start when it comes to planning? Go bowling!

Collaboration and Teaming 4:19

Communicate consistently with your teaching team and any outside (or inside) partners.

Strategic Teaming 2:58

Put some thought into creating groups. It takes a small village to knock down the dominoes.

Engaging Staff and Community Members 3:06

Staff, and other partners, can make the experience even more authentic for students. Learn from Jones’s creative ways of assessing students with a little help.

The Benefits of Public Projects 2:10

There are many upsides to putting on a show. From perseverance to teamwork, hear how Jones views the positive aspects of that pressure.

Case Study

Art Museum 9:21

Put it all together by taking a deep dive with Jones into one of her biggest projects.

Bonus Videos

How Did You Become a Teacher? 5:04

Both of Jones’s parents were teachers. Learn how she landed in the classroom after swearing she would not follow in their footsteps. (Note: this conversation is an excerpt from an original podcast).

Leadership vs. Followership 4:46

Learn Jones’s tricks on navigating complexity in the dual-language classroom.

We Changed the World! 8:15

Jones recounts an inspiring story about how a group of students gave the school janitor a vacation and changed the world in the process. (Note: this conversation is an excerpt from an original podcast).

Project-Based Learning at Early Elementary