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computers/software), gather information, sift through/evaluate that information, and select the most appropriate informatiorr to use as they plan their role-plays. 8. Estimate a time line. Helen and Jim estimate five hours in the cosmetology class, four hours in the English class, and additional hours outside of the classroom. They will negotiate a three-week deadline with the students and plan to modify this deadline if needed. 52 The Six A's of Designing Projects 11 Authenticity Is the project a cosmetology-related problem that has meaning to the students? Is it a problem or question that a stylist might face at work? Do students create or produce something that has value beyond school? Academic Rigor Does the project lead students to acquire and apply knowledge that is central to one or more cosmetology competencies and SCANS skills? Does it challenge students to use methods of inquiry that are used in cosmetology-related professions? Do students develop decision-making and problem-solving skills? Do students learn how to be autonomous learners? Applied Learning Are students solving semi-structured problems that do not have one correct answer? Does the project lead students to acquire and use competencies expected in hair salons? Does the work require students to develop organizational and selfmanagement skills? Active Learning Do students spend significant amounts of time doing field-based study? Does the project require students to engage in real investigation using a variety of methods, media, and sources? Are students expected to communicate what they are learning through presentations that resemble those found in salons and other cosmetology-related settings? Adult Connections Do students have opportunities to meet and observe salon employees and others with relevant expertise and experience? Do adults from outside the classroom help students develop a sense of the real-world standards for this type of work? Assessment Practices Do students have opportunities to review similar work products? Are there clear milestones or products at the completion of the project? Are students assessed in a variety of ways? Do students receive timely feedback on their work in progress? "