Projects

Discover a Different Way to Learn

Major Project Cycles

Cereal Box Design

Students used their math skills to develop a new cereal box design for Crum's Cereal Corporation. The new box had to use less cardboard than the original cereal box, but maintain the same volume.

World Explorers

Students researched explorers throughout history and learned about their impacts on the modern world. Students made maps and other artifacts to demonstrate each explorers contributions.

Colors in Nature

Students researched how animals create and use color in nature to improve their survival rates in the wild.

Wisconsin Expo

Students researched all things Wisconsin. They looked at topics ranging from our unique logging and shipping history, the development of Wisconsin's major cities, the most recognized tourist attractions, and the economy of Wisconsin.

Science Museum Exhibit

After a field study to the Science Museum of Minnesota, students had to dive deeper into an exhibit of their choice.

A Detailed Look at Project Cycles

Each year, NorthStar participates in 3-4 major project cycles.

Topic Selection

Each project cycle begins with topic selection. For most project cycles, the teachers determine the overall parameters of the project, however, students are given some choice when deciding their topics within those parameters. One project cycle each year is called the "Choice Project", and for this cycle, the sky's the limit because students can select virtually any topics that are of interest to them.

Researching/Writing

Students create essential questions to help narrow their research. From there, they spend several weeks digging deep into their topics and filling out notecards. Typically, after notecards are finished, the students work on pre-writing activities which help to organize their information. When ready, students write informational papers discussing the major information about their topics.

Physical Product

Once papers are edited and revised, students then work on the hands-on portion of the project cycle. They create a "product proposal" in which they plan a physical product that demonstrates their learning. Together, teachers and students obtain necessary materials to help construct the products. Ideas for physical products can vary greatly and can include a slideshow, brochure, 3D model, book, board game and more!

Coffee Connections

At the end of each major project cycle, students present their projects to the public at Coffee Connections. NorthStar invites families and community members to join us so students can develop their public speaking skills and share their knowledge.

Resources:

Badgerlink: A great resource that Wisconsin has provided and can only be used at school or by public library card holders.

Science Buddies: Science Buddies has over 1,150 project ideas in all areas of science.

Citation Machine: A great resource to use to cite your sources.

Easy Bib: Another great resource to use in Google Docs to cite your sources.

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