Genius Hour

Clothing for Female Bassists

For her Genius Hour, this student was interested in designing and creating clothing comfortable and fashionable for a female bassist, combining her love of the instrument and her passion for sewing.

Building a Lightsaber

Another student followed his interest in collaborating with his father to build a "rudimentary" lightsaber; and the class thought that was awesome!

Learning to Podcast

Three sophomore students, also working in their CTE class, are in the midst of designing a Podcast Studio at school. That also means learning the equipment and producing a podcast, which they graciously asked me to be part of. Above, is me being interviewed by a few of the ladies managing the project.

Tenets of Genius Hour:

Face to Face time is crucial
Let go and let them explore, struggle, research, and conquer and create
Grading was tricky, but I decided to focus on two standards: Research Skills, Speaking and Listening & Work Habits
Guide students to utilize social network to help set up Interviews or mentors
Reflect: I have students create a Digital Portfolio in their Google Drive (that I am shared with). This allows me to see their process journal and their ongoing thinking about the process; not unlike an MYP Process Journal for a "Personal Project." But the teacher also needs to reflect: Constantly reflect on the process. What is working with your students, what isn't? Not all genius hours will look the same, and I think that is ok. It is about the engagement and creativity for your kids.
Think about your benchmarks and check-ins: How do you want your students to show their mastery of their essential question? Do you just want your students to enjoy learning again? For me I had certain items due along the way to keep them on task. A video proposal (via Flipgrid), an interview with me, a Digital Portfolio check, and finally a TED style exhibition to their peers .

Genius Hour Rules: You have to RESEARCH something; you have to CREATE or PRODUCE something; you have to PRESENT something

*All of the above are a combination of ideas from books and blogs by Don Wettrick, A.J. Juliani, and John Spencer

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