Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge. Project-based learning is a dynamic classroom approach in which students actively explore real-world problems and challenges and acquire a deeper knowledge.
Depending on the K-6 grade level, this option is built into the schedule at regular intervals with students being grouped at their instructional level with other identified high ability learners in the same group. This is not a self-contained classroom, but instead is a subject-based grouping of students for short periods during the day that provides opportunities for high ability learners from different classrooms to interact with one another while also providing the valuable cross-ability groupings that stimulate high-level critical thinking skills for all learners within the regular classroom.
Teachers use modified HA curriculum and instruction according to content, pacing, and/or product to meet the unique needs of students in the classroom. Levels of depth and complexity are differentiated through carefully planned, coordinated learning experiences that extend the core curriculum, combine the curricular strategies of enrichment and acceleration, and integrate instructional strategies that engage learners at appropriate levels of challenge.
Research Opportunities
Research is the process of solving problems and finding facts in an organised way. Research is done by using what is known (if anything), and building on it. Additional knowledge can be gained by proving (or falsifying) existing theories, and by trying to better explain observations. Researchers take part in field or laboratory experiments, reading relevant books, journals or websites, taking notes and making conclusions.
"If we knew what it was we were doing, it would not be called research, would it?" — Albert Einstein
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Curriculum for high ability is integrated into these groups and classes, and meets the standards for high quality instructional material that is expected in the WLCSC. The standards listed below are found throughout the general education curriculum given the high standards our district holds for students and teachers.
● Academic content is accelerated and enriched.
● Lessons are written at levels of complexity appropriate for students with higher instructional needs, frequently beyond the enrolled grade level.
● Instruction is focused on the development of critical and creative thinking.
● Collaboration and communication skills are developed through daily group work.
● Students are given opportunities to pursue individual areas of choice.
● Pre-assessment of prior knowledge is vital for the purposes of planning for differentiation of instruction as well as determining growth over time.
● Conceptual focus and interdisciplinary connections are incorporated.
● Metacognitive skills are enhanced through peer and self-evaluation and the use of rubrics.