We weren't in our classroom together to celebrate the close of our school year. It's been empty since February 28th, when we last were in that colorful, cozy space. We weren't together to take our spring trip, to have field day, or to do all the things we do each year to close out a school year of learning.
But as exceptional learners we found ways to be together each day: to laugh, share "good things," give each other ideas, and ask questions. Through Google Chat and Zoom, our little class of learners persevered through the strangest trimester of school any of us has ever experienced. We found a way to still work on our class auction art project: a colorful quilt that each student contributed to. We found ways to play games, do some mini workouts, use art to share learning, and read, write, and learn math. We finished our year long project of conducting school wide morning announcements with creativity and innovation, moving from PA announcements in the school to clever and unique videos that teachers could use each day with their students. And in our final 2 weeks, we explored our passions. For the final two weeks of school, PNA students of all ages worked on a project of some kind. We did not have formal math lessons or work on other separate subject assignments. Instead we embraced our belief that project-based learning is engaging and stimulating for learners of every age. Each class worked on some kind of project. In 5th grade, we did Passion projects, where students had the opportunity to explore a topic they are passionate or curious about. Our "driving question" was: How can my final project of the year show off my skills as a courageous, independent thinker and exceptional learner? Students were invited to explore, research, practice, and learn about their topic and share their learning or new skills with creativity and excellence. Choice, voice, authenticity, and ACTION took the front seat for this project. Students chose a rich topic to research and explore and developed a driving question, a purpose, and a plan. They worked on their project for two weeks, reflecting each day on their work and learning. They completed some sort of final product to document their skill and understanding and shared that project, along with the rest of the PNA student body, in a digital “book.” It was so delightful to watch these young learners and their supportive families take on this challenge. Their topics: Japanese samurai and mythology; planning and constructing a cat shelter; ocean pollution; and learning to understand, respect, and care for sharks all reflected the unique personalities and passions of our students. They learned new skills like website design, wooden sword-making, and how to use power tools. Our final class meeting of the year with parents and grandparents and each other was truly a celebration of perseverance and passion. You can learn about their projects at this link. We may not have been together physically in our classroom, but our exceptional PNA fifth graders were there for each other and were resilient and creative and engaged until the last day of school. They were learning in a different space, place, and mode, but they were learning: about themselves, the world, and each other. And I'm confident they will continue that learning path this summer in so many ways. Because they are learning all the time: no matter what "school" looks like. They are passionate, independent, and courageous. And they persevere! Comments are closed.
|
Elizabeth FerryMs. Ferry's experiences include teaching with the Peace Corps in Tanzania, teaching high school English in Maine, and this is her second year at PNA. She loves moose, outdoor activities, and being with her students. Archives
April 2021
Categories |