Greenhouse Project
10/23/2020
by Pete Johnson How do kids learn best? To some degree, that depends on the child; however, most of us would probably agree that first hand experience is the best teacher. Project based learning (PBL) provides that first hand experience to students, which is why PBL is a fundamental pillar of PNA’s educational philosophy. PBL allows students to apply the concepts they learn to a purposeful activity or project. This not only enhances a child’s personal investment and engagement in the learning process, but this also creates authentic learning experiences with connections to real life. For the first couple of months of this school year, PNA middle school students embarked on an ambitious PBL project to construct a greenhouse as part of a structures and engineering science unit. Students practiced a number of skills, including: geometrical thinking, proper tool use, application of appropriate materials, and basic engineering skills. In addition, students also practiced several soft skills, such as collaboration and effective communication. This was not only a great opportunity to develop academic knowledge but this project also created opportunities to develop positive interpersonal and leadership skills. This was largely a student managed project. As such, students were assigned different roles such as Engineer (responsible for interpreting plans, etc.), Safety Supervisor (responsible for physical and Covid safety), Foreman (responsible for implementing tasks and managing other workers), and Worker Bees (responsible for general labor as directed by the foreman). Students had the opportunity to fill out a new job application for their preferred position a couple of times during the project. Students became very invested in the project, and exhibited a high degree of pride and ownership. I wouldn’t be surprised if some of the students ask to build things at home. I also wouldn’t be surprised if at least a few students put a brad nailer on their Christmas list! Comments are closed.
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Sarah Mariner
Ms. Mariner earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Science from Colorado State University, and was awarded a teaching certificate through the University of Alaska, Southeast. Her varied background includes being an environmental education field instructor in Massachusetts, Colorado, and Baja, Mexico. She also served two years as a Peace Corps volunteer in the Dominican Republic. Archives
April 2021
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