Project
What is the Project Approach?
The Project Approach model (developed by Lilian Katz and Slyvia Chard) defines a project as "an in-depth investigation of a real-world topic worthy of student time, attention and energy."
Why do we use the Project Approach at Alston Ridge?
The project approach is used in all grade levels at Alston Ridge Elementary, as a way to facilitate hands-on, student centered, and inquiry based learning around a topic of choice. An emphasis on student choice allows students to feel ownership in their own learning, builds intrinsic motivation, and fosters a curiosity in the world around them. Through project work, students build communication skills as they prepare to present their learning to parents, teachers, and peers, through a variety of representations.
What will my student study during a Project Approach unit?
Projects will be introduced throughout the year as a supplement to each grade level's curriculum, and can focus on any number of topics - trucks, plants, fossils, climate change, electricity - the list goes on!
How long does a Project Approach unit take?
Project work usually lasts about 6-8 weeks total. Project work occurs in the following phases:
Pre-Project - This phase focuses on building skills and/or background knowledge that will be necessary for the upcoming project. This may include introducing a concept, new vocabulary, research, taking notes, observational drawings, etc.
Phase 1 - Prior Knowledge - This phases asks students share what they already know about the project topic in class. They may be asked to tell a story about a time they encountered the topic, bring in items from home, or generate questions they have about the topic.
Phase 2 - Research and Creation - This phase is usually the longest. During this part of the project, students will have the opportunity to research a subtopic of their choosing. They will conduct guided and independent research, and will also engage in "guest expert" discussions to build vocabulary and knowledge around the topic. The final component of this phase is to create a "representation" to show what they have learned about their subtopic. This representation may be a poster, model, book, game, piece of art - the possibilities are endless!
Phase 3 - Culmination - This is the phase where students "show what they know" and share learning with peers, other adults in the building, and parents. Prior to a culmination, a student will likely have the opportunity to practice teaching their topic to others, and will learn about other subtopics from their peers in class. On culmination day, teachers will open their classrooms up to the school community to share class knowledge and celebrate all of the students' hard work.
Reflection - This is a time for students and teachers to discuss what went well during the project, and what might need to be changed for next time. Students will give their teacher feedback for future years, and will often complete a version of self-reflection to think more deeply about their own work.
Where will project work happen?
Project work will happen almost 100% at school. While project work is not designed to be at at-home project, teachers will often incorporate research into literacy homework, or students may feel driven to complete additional research at home to bring into school.