During the school year, I don't watch much TV, but I do indulge during the summer.For those of us who love dance related of shows, World of Dance (WOD - the one with Jennifer Lopez) was an exciting new program this summer. The question among dance fans became - which is better - WOD or So You … Continue reading From Reality TV to Growth Mindset
Genius Hour
Final Genius Hour Reflection and Wrap-Up
I've now wrapped up my first year implementing Genius Hour with my 8th graders. I jumped in with a few questions still on the table, but it was a risk I'm glad I took.In the fall, students researched topics of their choosing, but I accidentally narrowed their output by giving too many specifics up front. … Continue reading Final Genius Hour Reflection and Wrap-Up
‘Twas the Night Before Expo
Tomorrow is my students' Genius Hour Expo. The day we've been talking about since we returned to school in January has arrived.After our first round of Genius Hour last semester, I realized something needed to change. My students spent a lot of time and energy on something that only I saw. The "share out" element … Continue reading ‘Twas the Night Before Expo
Genius Hour – My Personal Mid-Check
Although I know the idea is controversial for some, my students wrote research-based argument papers as the first part of their 2016 Genius Hour projects. I was on the fence about this. Would I really be holding up the idea of Genius Hour with this kind of assignment? Would students really feel the passion about … Continue reading Genius Hour – My Personal Mid-Check
We are Changing the World!
I am excited to announce that for 2016 - my classes have adopted a "Change the World" mindset for our Genius Hour.We are currently deep into the topic selection process, and students will begin researching soon! (Would have been today...but then, snow day ❄.) THIS is the website I created for this project. I have combined … Continue reading We are Changing the World!
Genius Hour – A Reflection of Sorts
Egads! I drafted this post two months ago, but I forgot to post it. Better late than never!This year (2015) I jumped into Genius Hour. I didn't have everything completely planned ahead of time, which normally isn't how I operate. I thought I would get started and see where the kids took the project.See this … Continue reading Genius Hour – A Reflection of Sorts
Lessons Learned: Genius Hour 2015
After launching into a modified Genius Hour without having all of my metaphorical ducks in a row, I've learned a few lessons.1. Think about how you will keep track of everything.Problem: I asked that all of my students have their Essential Questions for research approved by me. As I approved their questions, I typed something … Continue reading Lessons Learned: Genius Hour 2015
