English--Spring Semester

The video below was created by my seven 9th grade students for the incoming principal in hopes of convincing her to continue with the Outdoor Classroom work.

The Rubric below, created by students, evaluates their work as completed by each participant. They each completed one and turned them into me privately. Some students also requested a private meeting with me to elaborate on their conclusions. It was a difficult process as they wrestled with being honest and kind regarding the work done by their classmates.

Reflection--by Mr. Rivver and students

Mr. Rivver--Letting loose to attain more was a primary takeaway from this project. My 7 students in English I are generally a responsible group, especially under the supervision of a couple of key leaders. So, it was relatively easy to let go and watch . . . and trust. This group was a perfect "trial" group for me as an educator. Solving problems was not a problem. Hurdles were hurdled, with little direct input from the teacher. I watched them learn larger life lessons as they struggled, tripped, regained their balance and moved forward. Resisting the urge "to help," was palpable. Yet, just like with my own kids. And, just like with my own kids, letting them, through trial and error, problem-solve, achieves a result beyond completion of the actual project. It achieves the result of the "process."

Student Comments:

"I enjoyed the creative freedom that we were allowed during the project."

"I disliked that some members did not put in as much effort or time into the project as others."

"We didn't really understand what we were doing we just did it."