Project
URL:
http://teachersnetwork.org/
everywhere/ehrich1/word-things/whowhathow.htm
How
it works:
The purpose of this unit is
to introduce students to a growing self-awareness that
enhances their ability to make career choices that are
sympathetic to their skills and joy, resulting in a better
sense of what kind of college they should apply to. My
target audience is primarily first-generation college
students. Research and reflection are incorporated that
will help them deal with family and social pressures.
Students will determine several resources and home/community/school
connections that will help them achieve their goals.
Curriculum Objectives:
Students will be able to: (1)
Brainstorm ideas using mindmaps, drawing, writing, small
group discussions and large group discussions; (2) Develop
questioning skills; (3) Find answers using technology
and developing connections with community/home/school
resources; (4) Develop research skills by conducting
an in-depth project and managing and analyzing information;
(5) Utilize a portfolio that demonstrates their research
reflections and thoughts during the process of "WHO,
WHAT HOW."
This unit addresses state and
national standards in the areas of reading, writing,
technology, presentation, collaboration, and careers.
Assessment:
This project has 23
log assignments, giving students a major project to keep
track of, and many stops along the way to analyze their
findings either as reflections or Power Point presentations.
Students keep track of their logs in a log checklist
at the beginning of their portfolio. The Power Point
presentation is a significant indicator of how much knowledge
a student has gathered, analyzed, and synthesized. Students
share what they have learned in reflection writings that
evolve around what they knew before they started this
research, what they know now, and how they can apply
this learning to their site.
Overall value:
My students have been very involved
in this project, as it is all about them, and their research
revolves around life questions and challenges. This project
has provided me with a reason to be in the computer lab
every week, with a focused activity. Students can be
in different places, but by referencing where they are
in their log assignments, they can move forward wherever
they are at. The HOW component is very significant, as
it is primarily focused on solutions to perceived challenges
to going to college. Students get a chance to put their
fears out there, and search for answers.
Tips:
Instead of feeding students questions, I
believe it is important for students to develop skills in creating
their own questions. Students are provided with many opportunities
to reflect on what they think, their questions, and their strengths
and resources.
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Jeanne Walker Ehrich
About the teacher:
Jeanne Walker Ehrich is an Art Specialist at
the Simpson Academy for Young Women, a public high
school in Chicago.
E-mail:
aehrich@xsite.net
Subject
Areas:
Arts
Business & Careers
College Prep
Grade
Levels:
9-12
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