1. Learning Circles & PBL Chris Hockert IEARN Project
Facilitator & Ambassador

2. Learning Circles Project Based Learning Projects
Global Collaboration Project
Cooperative & Inclusive Group Work
Student Centered & Directed Learning
Standards Based = Not an Add ON
Timeline to complete project
Assessment Rubric

3. Learning Circles & Project Based Learning
Driving questions are aligned with or derived from content standards
Projects can increase student motivation to read, write, and learn mathematics because they are engaged by the topic
Artifacts are not as important as the intellectually challenging tasks that lead to their creation. Rigorous project meet a complex challenge and address a Driving Question.
Design projects well, align with standards, manage it well, and time is used efficiently.
Projects can provide ESL and students with disabilities a chance to show their strengths and feel included.

4. Learning Circles & Project Based Learning
A well designed & implemented project helps students understand how school connects to the outside world.
Well designed & implemented project can improve students’ retention of knowledge over time.
PBL increases student engagement in learning and helps improve the performance of lower-achieving students.
PBL is more effective than traditional instruction in increasing academic achievement.
PBL increases mastery of 21st century skills.
Increase students’ achievement on state-administered, standardized tests.

5. Learning Circles & Project Based Learning
Common Project ideas include:
Exploration of a philosophical question “What makes a healthy school?”
Investigation of historical event, time period or natural phenomenon
Create a problem solving situation either real or fictitious
Examine a controversial issue “Should students be allowed to use cell phones in school?
Challenge to design a physical or computer based artifact, develop a plan, or produce an event
Challenge to create a piece of writing, multimedia, or work of art

6. Learning Circles & Project Based Learning
Project Template Document
Project teaching rubric
TN curriculum standards links document

7. Learning Circles & Project Based Learning
Resources:
PBL in the Elementary Grades Step by Step Guidance, Tools & Tips for Standards-Focused K-5 Projects by Buck Institute for Education