• PBL/PrB as inquiry-based student-centered learning is the primary mode of instruction at all grades

• Literacy is infused across the curriculum and in the context of the project

  • Effective literacy practices include extensive input, reading, and writing in the context of a project
  • Shared reading strategies are incorporated into the context of a project
  • Guided reading and independent reading is in the context of content and/or skills required for the project

• Schoolwide structures for adult learning include daily shared planning time for teams  and regular staff meeting time

• Projects are integrated with multiple subjects where possible

• Interim assessments should be more flexible to allow teacher to design projects that are authentic and rigorous

• Projects are tied to adults in the community and have a meaningful purpose for students

• Student voice and choice drive the direction and content of the project to high degrees

• Math is inquiry-based

  • focused on reasoning and sense-making
  • collaborative and experiential
  • connected to the project when applicable
  • Basic numeracy skills are reinforced in projects (number awareness, looking for patterns, making sense of data, interpreting graphs / diagrams)

• Infusion of technology to allow for differentiated learning, exploration of ideas, and practice of skills

  • Developmentally appropriate devices
  • Technology as a tool, not the focus

• Centers are an effective way to organize time and allow for student pacing

Tags: Community Partnerships, Ed Tech, Elementary, Math, Project Based Learning