Early Childhood students are participating in Project-Based Learning (PBL) this semester. Designed specifically for early education, the Project Approach allows in-depth investigation to occur over an extended period by engaging students’ interest on a topic they have selected with their peers and would like to learn more about.
Through three project phases, students uncover new facts and information on their project topic while improving their academic use of literacy and numerals, strengthening their disposition (habits of mind), and fostering their 21st Century skills. Each phase takes them a step further into the discovery process and completion of the project.
- Phase 1: Select a topic and discuss what students already know about their topic. Students generate a list of questions and document their predictions.
- Phase 2: Plan for fieldwork and/or interview knowledgeable experts in the community. Students research questions, participate in class discussions and document their journey through drawings, photos, written words and more.
- Phase 3: Students conclude their project by reviewing documentation, discussing findings, and participating in culminating activities such as a class book, open house, exhibition, creating a model and more.
This year, the Pre-K and Bridge K students completed their projects prior to Spring Break, and the Threes classes will start their projects in mid-April. So far, the students have chosen the following project topics:
- Bees
- Oceans
- Sea Turtles
- Playgrounds
- Texas Animals
- Pets
- Clothing
Throughout the Pre-K and Bridge K project work, students have asked questions, conducted research, shared their thoughts and ideas, and interviewed experts from both the All Saints' community and outside organizations such as Saving Hope Rescue, Canine Companions Service Animals, and We Build Fun Playground Designs. Check out the completed projects here!
