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Projects Instead of Tests
Projects Instead of Tests
In “Projects Instead of Tests,” Episode, #217, join Meredith Curtis to consider projects instead of tests for K-12 learning. Meredith shares the problems with test-taking and the benefits of hands-on projects. She gives practical examples of immersive learning that works from the beginning to high school graduation. Lots of practical ideas!
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Show Notes
Chemistry background for Human Anatomy – the big surprise! A-plus Chemistry students remembered nothing the next year in Human Anatomy where I needed them to know it!
The Problem with Test Taking
Test takers – good and bad
Tests – short term memory
Purpose of learning
Should My Kids Never Take Tests?
I recommend a little bit of test taking until high school when you can add a little more.
Example: Spelling & Math
What is a Project?
Projects are hands-on learning experiences
- Display for a Geography, Science, or History Fair
- Cooking & Baking & Party Planning (Recipes from other countries, Recipes from other places, Luau, Medieval Banquet, Ancient Greek Olympics, Victorian Tea, Sock Hop, Archaeology Dig, Monestary Day, State Dinner, Vaudeville Show)
- Skits, Radio Shows, Commercials, Talk Show, Interviews, NEWS shows, Sitcom, Act Out Battles, Act Out Courtroom Trial
- Stories, Poems, Novels, Letters, Journal Entries
- Experiments, Models, Observation of Nature
- Crafts, Paintings, Building Projects, Cardmaking, Posters
- Design an Airport, Airplane Company, Amusement Park, Miniature Golf Course
- Diaromas, Charts, Timelines, Maps
- Garden, Landscape, Graft Vines & Plants, Seedlings
- Pet & Animal Care – Home, Vet, Zoo, Stable, Breeding
How Do Projects Help Children & Teens Learn?
Projects Immerse students in a topic of study.
Projects Require Research into the topic of study.
Projects are Fun!
How to Grade Projects
Grade projects based on Content, Accuracy, Creativity, and Legibility. Require excellence. I love using rubrics to grade.
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Resources
20 Century History Project-Based Learning
Geography Project-Based Learning
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