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The what and how of PBL. Check this out for details and videos to inspire you. How can you use this in your classroom? Ask me; I can help!

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Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.

Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.

In Project Based Learning, teachers make learning come alive for students.

Students work on a project over an extended period of time - from a week up to a semester - that engages them in solving a real-world problem or answering a complex question. They demonstrate their knowledge and skills by creating a public product or presentation for a real audience.

As a result, students develop deep content knowledge as well as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication skills. Project Based Learning unleashes a contagious, creative energy among students and teachers.

And in case you were looking for a more formal definition...

Project Based Learning is a teaching method in which students gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to an authentic, engaging, and complex question, problem, or challenge.

Watch Project Based Learning in Action

These 7-10 minute videos show the Gold Standard PBL model in action, capturing the nuts and bolts of a PBL unit from beginning to end.

This project features teacher Rayhan Ahmed at Leaders High School in Brooklyn, NY, with his 11th grade chemistry class.

This project features Kimberly Head-Trotter of McKissack Middle School, in Nashville, TN, with her 6th grade ELA/History class.

This project features teacher Cheryl Bautista of Katherine Smith Elementary School, San Jose, CA and her third graders.

How does PBL differ from "doing a project"?

PBL is becoming widely used in schools and other educational settings, with different varieties being practiced. However, there are key characteristics that differentiate "doing a project" from engaging in rigorous Project Based Learning.

We find it helpful to distinguish a "dessert project" - a short, intellectually-light project served up after the teacher covers the content of a unit in the usual way - from a "main course" project, in which the project is the unit. In Project Based Learning, the project is the vehicle for teaching the important knowledge and skills student need to learn. The project contains and frames curriculum and instruction.

In contrast to dessert projects, PBL requires critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, and various forms of communication. To answer a driving question and create high-quality work, students need to do much more than remember information. They need to use higher-order thinking skills and learn to work as a team.
Learn more about "dessert" projects vs PBL
The gold standard for high-quality PBL

To help ensure your students are getting the main course and are engaging in quality Project Based Learning, PBLWorks promotes a research-informed model for "Gold Standard PBL."

The Gold Standard PBL model encompasses two useful guides for educators:

1) Seven Essential Project Design Elements provide a framework for developing high quality projects for your classroom, and

2) Seven Project Based Teaching Practiceshelp teachers, schools, and organizations improve, calibrate, and assess their practice.

The Gold Standard PBL model aligns with the High Quality PBL Framework. This framework describes what students should be doing, learning, and experiencing in a good project. Learn more at HQPBL.org.

Yes, we provide PBL training for educators!

PBLWorks offers a variety of workshops, courses and services for teachers, school and district leaders, and instructional coaches to get started and advance their practice with Project Based Learning.
Learn more

This project features teacher Rayhan Ahmed at Leaders High School in Brooklyn, NY, with his 11th grade chemistry class.

This project features Kimberly Head-Trotter of McKissack Middle School, in Nashville, TN, with her 6th grade ELA/History class.

This project features teacher Cheryl Bautista of Katherine Smith Elementary School, San Jose, CA and her third graders.

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Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students learn by actively engaging in real-world and personally meaningful projects.

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It can be intimidating in the beginning, but this article explains the benefits of project based learning for your students, not just for today, but for their future.

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For some teachers, project-based learning (PBL) is classroom bliss.

Students work together to investigate an authentic and nuanced real-world problem. They build curriculum-aligned skills in the process. They're rewarded with enhanced communication and problem-solving skills.

But organizing and running suitable PBL activities isn't always easy, as the pedagogy is surrounded by debate and takes form in a range of exercises.

Find and facilitate the most appropriate project-based learning examples for your students.

These sections will help you determine if the pedagogy is worthwhile. If so, you'll come away with a handful of effective ideas to implement easily.

What is project-based learning?

Project-based learning (PBL) or project-based instruction is a student-centered teaching method that encourages learning through engaging, real-world, curriculum-related questions or challenges.
This, of course, goes deeper than doing any old project. The goal is to get students to engage with a question or challenge that requires concentration and nuanced problem-solving skills.

This question or challenge must:

Be open-ended

Encourage students to apply skills and knowledge they've developed in your classes

Allow students to take their own approaches to develop an answer and deliver a product

As you can see, project-based learning doesn't conform to rote approaches or teacher-led instruction.

Driven by critical thinking, it's often interdisciplinary and encourages students to take a rewarding-yet-challenging road to skill-building and knowledge acquisition through a nuanced learning process.

Why is project-based learning important?

Project-based learning boosts classroom engagement and has a direct impact on how well students are prepared to enter the workforce once they graduate.

A growing focus on 21st century skills and critical thinking means project-based learning is gaining steam in education. In addition, PBL can help educators:

Teach students personal responsibility and critical time management skills

Design assignments that hit higher-order stages in Bloom's taxonomy like analysis, synthesis and evaluation

Provide multiple ways of assessing students at different stages of the project, whether through a portfolio, annotated bibliography, outline, draft product or finished project

When students leave school, they'll need to understand that work isn't as straightforward as lectures and homework. It's more aligned with a project-based approach, where employees are expected to prioritize, manage their time and deliver work on a deadline. Project-based learning helps teach students:

Creative problem-solving skills

The importance of collaboration

How to find the right tools for the job

How to build independent learning and project management skills

How to use relevant technology to find resources, communicate and produce a final product

Project-based learning is important because it helps students approach meaningful learning opportunities with curiosity, while also giving them real-world skills they'll use for the rest of their lives.

Key characteristics of project-based learning

Project-based learning isn't just group work or a randomly assigned project. Let's take a look at some of the key characteristics to help you build your own project-based learning assignment:

1. Project-based learning presents an open-ended, appropriately complex question.

Students should have to do deep research, draw on existing knowledge and come up with a solution in the form of a final project - whether that's a presentation, proposal, essay or other product.

Students should have a choice in what they explore, and the questions they answer should be genuinely challenging with real-world applications.

2. Project-based learning relates to knowledge acquired through classroom lessons.

Not only should project-based learning build on your classroom lessons, but it should give students the opportunity to put them to use in a real-world setting. Project-based learning encourages students to dive deeper into the subject matter and builds on content knowledge.

Ultimately, this content knowledge should have real-world applications that students can focus on during the project.

3. Project-based learning requires students to find their own solutions to a given problem or question.

Just because the inspiration for project-based learning assignments comes from your lectures, doesn't mean it should stay there. Effective PBL comes from requiring students to find their own solutions to a given problem - not just plugging in a formula to find the answer.

In practice, this looks like a real-world project with extended inquiry. It should be a multi-stage process with, if necessary, multiple deliverables at different stages to keep students on track.

4. Project-based learning gives students a choice in how they learn.

Students learn best when they're studying something that captures their imagination and interest. Regardless of the end product, students should have as much autonomy as possible in what they make and how. They should learn how to communicate ideas in a group and on their own, and really bring their passion for the project to the forefront.

5. Project-based learning follows a clear, well-defined set of assessment criteria.

The best way to keep project-based learning on track and effective is to let students know what's expected of them.

At the beginning of the project, give students a rubric and handouts outlining:

How the project will be graded

All the products they'll be required to hand in

How they should work independently or in a group

Some teachers may even choose to collaborate with students in the development of the rubric and project criteria so they may feel a deeper understanding of the project expectations.

When students know what's expected of them, they're more likely to succeed.

A simple example of project-based learning

The PBL process is straightforward.

1. You present the issue, methods of investigation and any supplementary materials. It's up to your students to deliver a defined product.

2. Next, encourage students to reflect on their work and make revisions, ultimately delivering a presentation to their peers.

In social studies, for example, you could task students with conceptualizing and mapping out a smartphone app that addresses a problem within your country. To add a math element, they can budget the necessary resources to develop it.

Despite this clear-cut process, there's a lot of space for diverse tasks and differentiation in general.

As a type of active learning and inquiry-based learning, examples of project-based learning depend on yourself and your students. As John Dewey famously wrote in My Pedagogic Creed:

The teacher is not in the school to impose certain ideas or to form certain habits in the child, but is there as a member of the community to select the influences which shall affect the child and to assist him in properly responding.

Following this philosophy, it's probable - and ideal - that any project-based learning exercise you run looks different from those run by your colleagues.

What matters is prioritizing your students' needs and learning styles above the curriculum.

10 Project-based learning ideas your class will love

As you can see, it's not always easy to come up with a "project" that meets these requirements. Ideating a driving question into meaningful learning experiences that have real-world applications is no small task.

But that's what we're here to help with. Below are 10 of our ideas to inspire your project-based learning exercises.

1. Play area

Give students an opportunity to apply their geometry skills by designing a new playground for the school.

Using a range of free web applications, or simply grid paper and a pencil, task them with mapping out the playground while meeting certain conditions. These conditions should be based on including a certain number of 2D or 3D shapes in the components of the playground, such as slides and monkey bars. For example, at least two isosceles triangles, three equilateral triangles, four squares and so on. Once complete, each student must calculate the area and perimeter of his or her playground, as well as each component.

2. Your very own math story

Fuse math with visual and language arts by asking students to write their own math books.

Taking the form of an original short story, require students to cover a certain number of curriculum skills. They should explain and exemplify each skill within the context of the story, inherently allowing them to improve understanding. In exemplifying how to use a given skill, students should teach themselves its importance for a real-world scenario. You should notice improved retention as a result.
Is it hard to get your students excited about math? Try turning it into an engaging game-based learning adventure!
Make math more fun! 🎉

3. Favorite recipes

Take a mathematical approach to nutrition by having your class analyze their favorite foods and dishes for presentations about select recipes.

Each student should choose a main course, two sides and a dessert. They must then create and deliver presentations about how to make the dishes. But instead of standard cooking advice, the focus is nutritional values - calories, carbohydrates, daily vitamin intake and so on - based on the ingredients. You may need to provide a go-to resource for students to find this information, but the onus for creating a healthy meal is on them. Bon appetit!

4. What happened to the dinosaurs?

Satiate your students' curiosity and probable love of dinosaurs by having them research and argue what caused their extinction, crafting a visual display to illustrate findings.

As the dinosaurs' extinction remains a debate that can draw students into a rabbit hole, consider providing questions to guide their research. How did the planet change from the Triassic to Cretaceous period? How prevalent were carnivores compared with omnivores and herbivores? Such guiding questions should allow students to reach informed opinions, writing reports to defend those opinions and allowing them to craft creative visualizations.

5. Ancient civilization of needs

Combine history, anthropology and psychology through this project, requiring learners to envision newly-discovered ancient civilizations.

The basic premise is to borrow elements from other ancient societies, creating a unique one. But there's a catch - the society must satisfy each tier in Maslow's hierarchy of needs. If students are not familiar with the theory, present it along with guiding questions.

For example, "Which tier of the pyramid is most important for society to function?" These questions should encourage students to develop a collection of products, including: a written explanation of the society and how it meets Maslow's hierarchy of needs; an analysis of the elements borrowed from other ancient civilizations; a visual depiction of the society and more.

6. Where it comes from

Launch this independent or paired study activity to explore how ancient machines are still present in modern-day science and engineering.

The exercise starts with each student or pair choosing a simple machine - a pulley, lever, wedge and so on - or another ancient tool. They must research the history of their tools, determining how and where scientists and engineers still use them today. Students can then envision how the same tools will work as part of inventions 100 years into the future. They can produce videos, presentations or mock interviews with inventors to showcase their research and ideas.

7. The Oscar goes to ...

Have students script a part of a significant historical event to exercise their drama, history, and creative writing skills.

Whether a battle, court proceeding or formation of a powerful organization, have students choose from a list of events. Each learner's goal is to thoroughly research an event, forming a cohesive string of scenes they'd watch in a movie or television show. This will allow them to write scripts, highlighting each figure's motives and background. They must also pay particular attention to historical accuracy in terms of dialogue and settings. After you've approved each student's script, they can form small groups and choose their favorite, acting it out in front of the class.

8. Fashionista

Encourage students to take the roles of fashion designers and marketers with a scenario that combines business with visual and language arts.

This scenario entails a client - played by you - asking fashion agencies - played by small student groups - to manage the creation and launch of a specific clothing item, such as a dress or jacket. Although your idea is crystal clear, you're having a hard time communicating it. So, the agencies must start the project by developing a questionnaire to draw answers from you. As you respond to each agency, they can begin the next steps. These can include designing mock-ups, writing advertisements and calculating an appropriate sale price. After this work is done, each agency will pitch their version of the item to you. You determine who best captured the client's ideas.

9. A career with math

Give students a chance to look towards the future, investigating a career path that heavily relies on math.

You can present a list of relevant careers or have students suggest their own. Either way, choosing a career will launch the investigation process. Each student must research the career, writing a brief report about how professionals use math in daily duties. From there, students should be able to choose a skill used in their selected procession, linking it to a skill in the curriculum. The final task is to write a textbook chapter that explains the skill while offering specific examples of how and when it is used in the given career.

10. The economics of pizza

Analyze, from a mathematical perspective, many students' favorite meal: pizza.

This project-based learning assessment starts by choosing a pizza chain, researching its prices and applying linear algebra concepts to find the base cost of a pizza. These same concepts will allow students to determine how much each additional topping costs.

But the task isn't done there. Students should research - individually or in small groups - how much it costs to source each topping. They can then determine which type of pizza yields the greatest and smallest profit margins. Doing so acts as an introduction to basic economic concepts, encouraging students to critically think about business.

Notable examples of project-based learning

Your inspiration doesn't have to be limited to isolated activities like the ones above! There are many notable examples of project-based learning initiatives.

You'll likely be able to freely borrow ideas from these institutions:

1. THINK Global School

Calling itself the "world's first traveling high school," THINK Global School has its students live in four countries per year while developing curriculum knowledge entirely through project-based learning.

The projects are rooted in the cultures and environments surrounding the students.

2. Muscatine High School

An oft-referenced example of commitment to project-based learning, Muscatine High School in Iowa worked with a third-party organization to implement project-based learning opportunities across classes and subjects.

The projects are diverse, ranging from developing personal financial plans to exploring local history through interviews with community members.

3. EdVisions

A non-profit organization, EdVisions ' mission is "to help create and sustain great schools ... using the most student-centered teaching and learning." This largely involves partnering with schools to implement project-based learning opportunities.

The organization does so by working with a given school to identify students' learning needs and preferences, tailoring projects to them. This serves as an important reminder: project-based learning starts and ends with students in mind.

However, educators are still asking some important questions...

With such complex demands in today's educational system, educators worldwide are asking if elementary students can effectively complete research projects?

Will they still meet required learning objectives with the teacher serving as a guide instead of teaching the curriculum in a direct, traditional manner?

The project-based learning ideas above can be incredibly useful in the right setting and with the right students. However, there are some perceived benefits and disadvantages worth outlining.

Benefits and disadvantages of project-based learning

Debate permeates discussions about project-based learning.

It's up to you to understand the pros and cons, applying them to your classroom situation to make a decision about a given activity.

Key benefits of project-based learning:

Increased engagement - Project-based learning empowers students to play an active role in learning, as the complex tasks they take on demand novel approaches and are relevant to real-world contexts. This creates a classroom environment in which students overwhelmingly report feeling engaged, according to a meta analysis of 82 studies.

Better knowledge retention - Compared with traditional instruction, extensive research indicates that students who complete project-based learning exercises and assessments often show superior knowledge retention in a range of subjects from math to second-language learning. This can translate to higher performance on tests, according to a 2011 study.

Improved critical thinking abilities - The process of completing and delivering a project-generated product inherently builds problem-solving abilities, according to research from as recent as 2010. This is because students must heavily exercise those abilities, applying them in tangible contexts. For these reasons, the research indicates that students in project-based learning environments can better use problem-solving skills out of school than those in traditional learning settings.

More opportunities to explore EdTech - Project-based learning, by nature, enables students to use EdTech and explore Internet resources and technology tools. For example, independent research is likely rooted in online searches. EdTech, on the other hand, can lend itself to creating and delivering artifacts.

Disadvantages of project-based learning

Subjectivity in assessments - When grading a project-based learning product, many critics will say you're closing the door on objectivity. This is because, as opposed to using standardized forms of measurement, you'll rely on subjectively assessing a range of products. For these reasons, there's an argument that you shouldn't use project-based learning for a large part of students' marks.

Hyper-focus on product creation - It's possible for the day-to-day focus of project-based learning to transition from developing and applying essential skills to merely working on a product. When this happens, you can debate that students won't reap benefits such as improved problem solving and knowledge retention.

Questionable application in mathematics - Largely skill-based for elementary learners, dedicating time to project-based learning may not be the best use of time. Consider this: Would students better understand multiplication by applying it in a project-based learning context, or by running through drills and word problems?

Armed with this knowledge, it's ultimately your decision to bring project-based learning into your classroom.

A quality project will both engage students' interests and align with what's being taught, so keep that in mind for the most successful outcome.

Final thoughts on building PBL exercises

After going through this, you should have a better understanding of project-based learning as a pedagogy, as well as how to create a project design and launch it.

Just remember that the teaching method must be student-centered. What works for some teachers may not work for you, and what works for you may not work for others.

But you'll never know until you try.

👉 Create or log in to your teacher on Prodigy - a game-based learning platform for math that's curriculum-aligned and used by over 100 million teachers, students and parents worldwide.

Make math more fun! 🎉

For some teachers, project-based learning (PBL) is classroom bliss.

Students work together to investigate an authentic and nuanced real-world problem. They build curriculum-aligned skills in the process. They're rewarded with enhanced communication and problem-solving skills.

But organizing and running suitable PBL activities isn't always easy, as the pedagogy is surrounded by debate and takes form in a range of exercises.

Find and facilitate the most appropriate project-based learning examples for your students.

These sections will help you determine if the pedagogy is worthwhile. If so, you'll come away with a handful of effective ideas to implement easily.

What is project-based learning?

Project-based learning (PBL) or project-based instruction is a student-centered teaching method that encourages learning through engaging, real-world, curriculum-related questions or challenges.
This, of course, goes deeper than doing any old project. The goal is to get students to engage with a question or challenge that requires concentration and nuanced problem-solving skills.

This question or challenge must:

Be open-ended

Encourage students to apply skills and knowledge they've developed in your classes

Allow students to take their own approaches to develop an answer and deliver a product

As you can see, project-based learning doesn't conform to rote approaches or teacher-led instruction.

Driven by critical thinking, it's often interdisciplinary and encourages students to take a rewarding-yet-challenging road to skill-building and knowledge acquisition through a nuanced learning process.

Why is project-based learning important?

Project-based learning boosts classroom engagement and has a direct impact on how well students are prepared to enter the workforce once they graduate.

A growing focus on 21st century skills and critical thinking means project-based learning is gaining steam in education. In addition, PBL can help educators:

Teach students personal responsibility and critical time management skills

Design assignments that hit higher-order stages in Bloom's taxonomy like analysis, synthesis and evaluation

Provide multiple ways of assessing students at different stages of the project, whether through a portfolio, annotated bibliography, outline, draft product or finished project

When students leave school, they'll need to understand that work isn't as straightforward as lectures and homework. It's more aligned with a project-based approach, where employees are expected to prioritize, manage their time and deliver work on a deadline. Project-based learning helps teach students:

Creative problem-solving skills

The importance of collaboration

How to find the right tools for the job

How to build independent learning and project management skills

How to use relevant technology to find resources, communicate and produce a final product

Project-based learning is important because it helps students approach meaningful learning opportunities with curiosity, while also giving them real-world skills they'll use for the rest of their lives.

Key characteristics of project-based learning

Project-based learning isn't just group work or a randomly assigned project. Let's take a look at some of the key characteristics to help you build your own project-based learning assignment:

1. Project-based learning presents an open-ended, appropriately complex question.

Students should have to do deep research, draw on existing knowledge and come up with a solution in the form of a final project - whether that's a presentation, proposal, essay or other product.

Students should have a choice in what they explore, and the questions they answer should be genuinely challenging with real-world applications.

2. Project-based learning relates to knowledge acquired through classroom lessons.

Not only should project-based learning build on your classroom lessons, but it should give students the opportunity to put them to use in a real-world setting. Project-based learning encourages students to dive deeper into the subject matter and builds on content knowledge.

Ultimately, this content knowledge should have real-world applications that students can focus on during the project.

3. Project-based learning requires students to find their own solutions to a given problem or question.

Just because the inspiration for project-based learning assignments comes from your lectures, doesn't mean it should stay there. Effective PBL comes from requiring students to find their own solutions to a given problem - not just plugging in a formula to find the answer.

In practice, this looks like a real-world project with extended inquiry. It should be a multi-stage process with, if necessary, multiple deliverables at different stages to keep students on track.

4. Project-based learning gives students a choice in how they learn.

Students learn best when they're studying something that captures their imagination and interest. Regardless of the end product, students should have as much autonomy as possible in what they make and how. They should learn how to communicate ideas in a group and on their own, and really bring their passion for the project to the forefront.

5. Project-based learning follows a clear, well-defined set of assessment criteria.

The best way to keep project-based learning on track and effective is to let students know what's expected of them.

At the beginning of the project, give students a rubric and handouts outlining:

How the project will be graded

All the products they'll be required to hand in

How they should work independently or in a group

Some teachers may even choose to collaborate with students in the development of the rubric and project criteria so they may feel a deeper understanding of the project expectations.

When students know what's expected of them, they're more likely to succeed.

A simple example of project-based learning

The PBL process is straightforward.

1. You present the issue, methods of investigation and any supplementary materials. It's up to your students to deliver a defined product.

2. Next, encourage students to reflect on their work and make revisions, ultimately delivering a presentation to their peers.

In social studies, for example, you could task students with conceptualizing and mapping out a smartphone app that addresses a problem within your country. To add a math element, they can budget the necessary resources to develop it.

Despite this clear-cut process, there's a lot of space for diverse tasks and differentiation in general.

As a type of active learning and inquiry-based learning, examples of project-based learning depend on yourself and your students. As John Dewey famously wrote in My Pedagogic Creed:

The teacher is not in the school to impose certain ideas or to form certain habits in the child, but is there as a member of the community to select the influences which shall affect the child and to assist him in properly responding.

Following this philosophy, it's probable - and ideal - that any project-based learning exercise you run looks different from those run by your colleagues.

What matters is prioritizing your students' needs and learning styles above the curriculum.

10 Project-based learning ideas your class will love

As you can see, it's not always easy to come up with a "project" that meets these requirements. Ideating a driving question into meaningful learning experiences that have real-world applications is no small task.

But that's what we're here to help with. Below are 10 of our ideas to inspire your project-based learning exercises.

1. Play area

Give students an opportunity to apply their geometry skills by designing a new playground for the school.

Using a range of free web applications, or simply grid paper and a pencil, task them with mapping out the playground while meeting certain conditions. These conditions should be based on including a certain number of 2D or 3D shapes in the components of the playground, such as slides and monkey bars. For example, at least two isosceles triangles, three equilateral triangles, four squares and so on. Once complete, each student must calculate the area and perimeter of his or her playground, as well as each component.

2. Your very own math story

Fuse math with visual and language arts by asking students to write their own math books.

Taking the form of an original short story, require students to cover a certain number of curriculum skills. They should explain and exemplify each skill within the context of the story, inherently allowing them to improve understanding. In exemplifying how to use a given skill, students should teach themselves its importance for a real-world scenario. You should notice improved retention as a result.
Is it hard to get your students excited about math? Try turning it into an engaging game-based learning adventure!
Make math more fun! 🎉

3. Favorite recipes

Take a mathematical approach to nutrition by having your class analyze their favorite foods and dishes for presentations about select recipes.

Each student should choose a main course, two sides and a dessert. They must then create and deliver presentations about how to make the dishes. But instead of standard cooking advice, the focus is nutritional values - calories, carbohydrates, daily vitamin intake and so on - based on the ingredients. You may need to provide a go-to resource for students to find this information, but the onus for creating a healthy meal is on them. Bon appetit!

4. What happened to the dinosaurs?

Satiate your students' curiosity and probable love of dinosaurs by having them research and argue what caused their extinction, crafting a visual display to illustrate findings.

As the dinosaurs' extinction remains a debate that can draw students into a rabbit hole, consider providing questions to guide their research. How did the planet change from the Triassic to Cretaceous period? How prevalent were carnivores compared with omnivores and herbivores? Such guiding questions should allow students to reach informed opinions, writing reports to defend those opinions and allowing them to craft creative visualizations.

5. Ancient civilization of needs

Combine history, anthropology and psychology through this project, requiring learners to envision newly-discovered ancient civilizations.

The basic premise is to borrow elements from other ancient societies, creating a unique one. But there's a catch - the society must satisfy each tier in Maslow's hierarchy of needs. If students are not familiar with the theory, present it along with guiding questions.

For example, "Which tier of the pyramid is most important for society to function?" These questions should encourage students to develop a collection of products, including: a written explanation of the society and how it meets Maslow's hierarchy of needs; an analysis of the elements borrowed from other ancient civilizations; a visual depiction of the society and more.

6. Where it comes from

Launch this independent or paired study activity to explore how ancient machines are still present in modern-day science and engineering.

The exercise starts with each student or pair choosing a simple machine - a pulley, lever, wedge and so on - or another ancient tool. They must research the history of their tools, determining how and where scientists and engineers still use them today. Students can then envision how the same tools will work as part of inventions 100 years into the future. They can produce videos, presentations or mock interviews with inventors to showcase their research and ideas.

7. The Oscar goes to ...

Have students script a part of a significant historical event to exercise their drama, history, and creative writing skills.

Whether a battle, court proceeding or formation of a powerful organization, have students choose from a list of events. Each learner's goal is to thoroughly research an event, forming a cohesive string of scenes they'd watch in a movie or television show. This will allow them to write scripts, highlighting each figure's motives and background. They must also pay particular attention to historical accuracy in terms of dialogue and settings. After you've approved each student's script, they can form small groups and choose their favorite, acting it out in front of the class.

8. Fashionista

Encourage students to take the roles of fashion designers and marketers with a scenario that combines business with visual and language arts.

This scenario entails a client - played by you - asking fashion agencies - played by small student groups - to manage the creation and launch of a specific clothing item, such as a dress or jacket. Although your idea is crystal clear, you're having a hard time communicating it. So, the agencies must start the project by developing a questionnaire to draw answers from you. As you respond to each agency, they can begin the next steps. These can include designing mock-ups, writing advertisements and calculating an appropriate sale price. After this work is done, each agency will pitch their version of the item to you. You determine who best captured the client's ideas.

9. A career with math

Give students a chance to look towards the future, investigating a career path that heavily relies on math.

You can present a list of relevant careers or have students suggest their own. Either way, choosing a career will launch the investigation process. Each student must research the career, writing a brief report about how professionals use math in daily duties. From there, students should be able to choose a skill used in their selected procession, linking it to a skill in the curriculum. The final task is to write a textbook chapter that explains the skill while offering specific examples of how and when it is used in the given career.

10. The economics of pizza

Analyze, from a mathematical perspective, many students' favorite meal: pizza.

This project-based learning assessment starts by choosing a pizza chain, researching its prices and applying linear algebra concepts to find the base cost of a pizza. These same concepts will allow students to determine how much each additional topping costs.

But the task isn't done there. Students should research - individually or in small groups - how much it costs to source each topping. They can then determine which type of pizza yields the greatest and smallest profit margins. Doing so acts as an introduction to basic economic concepts, encouraging students to critically think about business.

Notable examples of project-based learning

Your inspiration doesn't have to be limited to isolated activities like the ones above! There are many notable examples of project-based learning initiatives.

You'll likely be able to freely borrow ideas from these institutions:

1. THINK Global School

Calling itself the "world's first traveling high school," THINK Global School has its students live in four countries per year while developing curriculum knowledge entirely through project-based learning.

The projects are rooted in the cultures and environments surrounding the students.

2. Muscatine High School

An oft-referenced example of commitment to project-based learning, Muscatine High School in Iowa worked with a third-party organization to implement project-based learning opportunities across classes and subjects.

The projects are diverse, ranging from developing personal financial plans to exploring local history through interviews with community members.

3. EdVisions

A non-profit organization, EdVisions ' mission is "to help create and sustain great schools ... using the most student-centered teaching and learning." This largely involves partnering with schools to implement project-based learning opportunities.

The organization does so by working with a given school to identify students' learning needs and preferences, tailoring projects to them. This serves as an important reminder: project-based learning starts and ends with students in mind.

However, educators are still asking some important questions...

With such complex demands in today's educational system, educators worldwide are asking if elementary students can effectively complete research projects?

Will they still meet required learning objectives with the teacher serving as a guide instead of teaching the curriculum in a direct, traditional manner?

The project-based learning ideas above can be incredibly useful in the right setting and with the right students. However, there are some perceived benefits and disadvantages worth outlining.

Benefits and disadvantages of project-based learning

Debate permeates discussions about project-based learning.

It's up to you to understand the pros and cons, applying them to your classroom situation to make a decision about a given activity.

Key benefits of project-based learning:

Increased engagement - Project-based learning empowers students to play an active role in learning, as the complex tasks they take on demand novel approaches and are relevant to real-world contexts. This creates a classroom environment in which students overwhelmingly report feeling engaged, according to a meta analysis of 82 studies.

Better knowledge retention - Compared with traditional instruction, extensive research indicates that students who complete project-based learning exercises and assessments often show superior knowledge retention in a range of subjects from math to second-language learning. This can translate to higher performance on tests, according to a 2011 study.

Improved critical thinking abilities - The process of completing and delivering a project-generated product inherently builds problem-solving abilities, according to research from as recent as 2010. This is because students must heavily exercise those abilities, applying them in tangible contexts. For these reasons, the research indicates that students in project-based learning environments can better use problem-solving skills out of school than those in traditional learning settings.

More opportunities to explore EdTech - Project-based learning, by nature, enables students to use EdTech and explore Internet resources and technology tools. For example, independent research is likely rooted in online searches. EdTech, on the other hand, can lend itself to creating and delivering artifacts.

Disadvantages of project-based learning

Subjectivity in assessments - When grading a project-based learning product, many critics will say you're closing the door on objectivity. This is because, as opposed to using standardized forms of measurement, you'll rely on subjectively assessing a range of products. For these reasons, there's an argument that you shouldn't use project-based learning for a large part of students' marks.

Hyper-focus on product creation - It's possible for the day-to-day focus of project-based learning to transition from developing and applying essential skills to merely working on a product. When this happens, you can debate that students won't reap benefits such as improved problem solving and knowledge retention.

Questionable application in mathematics - Largely skill-based for elementary learners, dedicating time to project-based learning may not be the best use of time. Consider this: Would students better understand multiplication by applying it in a project-based learning context, or by running through drills and word problems?

Armed with this knowledge, it's ultimately your decision to bring project-based learning into your classroom.

A quality project will both engage students' interests and align with what's being taught, so keep that in mind for the most successful outcome.

Final thoughts on building PBL exercises

After going through this, you should have a better understanding of project-based learning as a pedagogy, as well as how to create a project design and launch it.

Just remember that the teaching method must be student-centered. What works for some teachers may not work for you, and what works for you may not work for others.

But you'll never know until you try.

👉 Create or log in to your teacher on Prodigy - a game-based learning platform for math that's curriculum-aligned and used by over 100 million teachers, students and parents worldwide.

Make math more fun! 🎉

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Project-Based Learning (PBL) Benefits, Examples & 10 Ideas for Classroom Implementation

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For some teachers, project-based learning (PBL) is classroom bliss. Students work together to investigate an authentic and nuanced real-world problem. They build curriculum-aligned skills in the process. They're rewarded with enhanced communication and problem-solving skills. But organizing and running suitable PBL activities isn't always easy, as the pedagogy is surrounded by debate and takes form in a range of exercises.

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Interested in a PBL Conference anyone? Early bird registration is open!

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PBL World 2023!

The 12th Annual PBL World conference is SOLD OUT with the highest registration rate in the event's history. Please visit our Service Calendar to view upcoming open online workshops and courses and register today!

PBL World is a multi-day conference for Project Based Learning presented by PBLWorks. This event brings together educators - K-12 teachers, instructional coaches, school and district leaders - who want to begin and advance their Project Based Learning practice, and connect with a community of their peers.

Returning to American Canyon High School, Napa Valley, California

June 26-29, 2023 (Monday-Thursday)
Pre-conference on June 26 (Monday before)

"PBL World offered our school leadership team the essential skills needed to coach our staff through the PBL process. Additionally, we were able to reflect upon systems as a campus to continue to grow our PBL culture with an equity focus."

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This once-a-year event is a multi-day gathering of K-12 teachers, instructional coaches, and school and district leaders

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Introducing Podcasting To Your Classroom

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Introducing Podcasting To Your Classroom

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Join the trend and let you students have their say. Podcasting can strengthen oral communication skills, build collaborative skills, allow for richer analysis of a variety of text types, and are entertaining. Read this article for ideas and entry points into your podcasting experience.

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There seems to be a podcast for everything and everyone. And a growing number of people are finding their audio niche: More than a quarter of Americans listen to podcasts weekly, according to The Infinite Dial 2021. The audience is more diverse than ever, spanning all age groups. As of August 2020, Ipsos reports that 1 in 4 children listen to podcasts - a 20% increase from six months prior.

Educators are acting on these changes: TeachersPayTeachers.com reported a 650% increase in podcasting lesson plans after the launch of Serial in 2014.

The shift from listening at home to using podcasts in the classroom is not without cause. Speaking and listening skills are a part of the Common Core standards, which include interpreting diverse media and identifying speakers' arguments, claims and rhetoric.

Audio learning is valuable for a lot of students in a way that purely text-based learning is not. Among children for whom English is not their primary language, podcasts let them hear spoken English and follow along with a transcript. The Reading Rockets public media literacy initiative states that children are able to listen and talk about more complex ideas than they can read and write about.

Additionally, the sheer amount of podcasts available afford children the opportunity to learn about things they are interested in and delve deeper into unique topics they might not otherwise have access to.

Preparing Students for Podcast Lessons

Before sending students home, educators should make sure students have access to all the resources they need to make the most of a podcast-based lesson plan and that selected content is appropriate.
Consider the following guidelines when assigning audio-oriented activities.

1. Provide access to supplies and devices. If a lesson requires listening to a podcast, every student will need access to a listening platform (such as Spotify, Stitcher or SoundCloud), a device to listen on (i.e., phone or computer) and headphones. For recording, students will need a device such as a smartphone. There is free editing software on some computers, and schools may have access to educational licenses.

2. Listen for yourself. If you are assigning a specific podcast, listen through the material just as you would a novel. Keep an ear out for content or language that might be inappropriate for your audience or that you will need to prepare students for. Take note of any warnings you want to share with administrators and guardians.

3. Let students have some decision-making power. When possible, allow students to choose podcasts they are interested in and focus on topics that energize them. You can set boundaries using minimum or maximum length requirements or subject matter restrictions. You may also consider imposing standards for the podcast source, or take the time to approve selections in advance.

5 Podcast Activity Ideas for the Classroom

There are plenty of ways educators can begin teaching podcasts in the classroom, regardless of subject area. Below are some lesson plan ideas for teachers who want to use podcasts as learning tools for their students.

Audio-Based Research

Podcasts can be an informative source for research, either through scripted, non-fiction series that delve into a specific topic or news briefs with interviews from experts and people affected by a story.

This lesson modification can work with almost any existing research project or essay - anything that requires cited sources. Instead of traditional text resources, ask students to cite at least three primary and three secondary sources that come directly from podcasts.

A primary source is a firsthand account of events created at the time they happen or shortly after. The New York Times podcast The Daily often uses primary sources, and reporters interview people about their lived experiences for a story.

A secondary source is an analysis or synthesis of events and primary sources. Also from The New York Times, 1619 is an audio series examining the beginnings of American slavery and is an example of a secondary source.

Start here: Citing podcasts in MLA format

Rhetorical and Argument Analysis Through Sound

Rhetorical analysis breaks down nonfiction to explain how a piece works using ethos (authoritative), pathos (emotional) and logos (logical) appeals. Often, students analyze written work.
In this activity, students complete a rhetorical analysis of a nonfiction podcast.

1. Pair students up and have them each select a nonfiction podcast to analyze, such as an episode of This American Life from NPR.

2. Take annotations or notes as you listen, marking the timestamp for each observation. Pay special attention to appeals made by the host.

3. Discuss with your partner what makes this episode compelling. What does the host want you to believe?

4. Based on your notes and discussion, determine the appeals used in this piece and provide examples.

Ethos appeals to character or credibility. Does the host demonstrate authority over the topic and respect for multiple viewpoints?

Pathos appeals to emotions. How does the host use sound to make you feel about the topic?

Logos appeals to logic. What facts does the host use to support their claim? Is the episode arranged logically?

Start here:

Using Serial as an example of rhetorical analysis
Learning to Interview

1. Each student should select someone to interview. This could be a friend, family member or person in their community they find interesting.

2. Listen to podcast interviews in preparation. What kinds of questions do hosts ask? How do they use silence to compel the interviewee to speak?

3. Gather the information you already know about the interviewee and use it to inform the questions you want to ask.

4. Make a list of questions for the interview.

5. Conduct and record the interview in a quiet space.

Start here:

How to help students develop interviewing skills
Practicing interviews is a great way for students to learn how to ask incisive questions, listen actively and improvise. In this activity, ask students to conduct an interview with someone in their life and submit an edited audio version of the conversation.

Dramatization and Storytelling

Turn a typical reading into an audio drama. Instead of reading aloud required text in class, such as Macbeth or A Midsummer Night's Dream, have students reproduce an audio-only version.
Start here:

Oral storytelling and dramatization
Assign parts just as you would with a regular reading, but give students time to prepare in advance. Ask them how else you can engage listeners in the text. What additional sound effects could you make? How could music enhance the experience?

1. Divide students into groups and have them pitch a semester-long podcast they want to produce. Students should be able to describe what potential episodes would cover and come up with a plan to divide different responsibilities.

2. Write an outline for the first episode that includes any interview questions, prepared research and time checkpoints.

3. Record and edit your first episode.

4. Peer review another group's first episode and provide feedback on the production, theme and execution of the idea.

5. Cycle through steps two through four for the rest of the term, at a predetermined cadence.

This activity focuses on the different types of sound instead of producing a clean episode or reading. Record as a class in a single take.

Producing a Podcast

This long-term project idea could take place over the course of an entire term and teach students about the entire life cycle of a podcast and its production.

Podcasts Suitable for Kids and Teens

Looking for a podcast suitable for the classroom, car rides or bedtime? Below are shows to consider for children and teenagers.

Podcasts for Children

from American Public Media

Every week, host Molly Bloom is joined by a kid to answer scientific questions - from why we get songs stuck in our heads to how germs are spread.

from Vermont Public Radio

Experts answer questions from kid listeners about the world: Why are fireworks bright? Why aren't babies just little adults? Parents can submit recordings of kids' questions to questions@butwhykids.org.

Grandma for President from Audible

Eleven-year-old Bennet accidentally gets his grandma in the running for U.S. president. Follow along with this 10-episode series as Bennet learns about democracy, elections and the power of one.

Live From Mount Olympus from Onassis Podcasts

This dramatization of the story of Perseus details his quest to save his mother from an evil king.

The Past and the Curious from Mick Sullivan

A podcast on the little, often unknown details of history. Host Mick Sullivan uses music and humor to tell stories about people like astronomer Edwin Hubble and Maria Tallchief, the first American ballet dancer.

The Radio Adventures of Eleanor Amplified from NPR

In this adventure series, radio-reporter Eleanor Amplified pursues the biggest story of her career and foils devious plots along the way.

Story Seeds from Macmillan Children's Publishing Group

In every episode, a kid and a professional children's book author collaborate on a story idea to turn it into a reality.
Some of the podcasts below may contain explicit language or mature themes. Please review specific content on your own when deciding whether it is appropriate for your audience.
The Unexplainable Disappearance of Mars Patel from Gen-Z Media

This scripted podcast is performed by middle-grade students and tells how 11-year-old Mars Patel and his two friends embark on a mysterious journey to find their missing pals.

Podcasts for Teenagers

Dear Hank and John from Hank and John Green

Brothers and authors Hank and John Green answer emails from listeners and provide advice in this comedy podcast that touches on the lighthearted and the emotional.

The Mortified Podcast from Radiotopia

Adults get on stage and read aloud from the most embarrassing diary entries, love letters and songs they wrote as teenagers.

Song Exploder from Hrishikesh Hirway

Each week, host Hrishikesh Hirway asks artists to explain the decisions behind creating a specific song in their discography. Previous guests include Billie Eilish, Bleachers and Lorde.

Stuff You Should Know from iHeart Podcasts

Hosts Josh Clark and Chuck Bryant research and explain a new topic every episode: Vocal fry, the electoral college and Rasputin are a few potential lessons to listen to.

Five teenagers talk through the ups and downs of high school as they are experiencing them. The hosts recommend first-time listeners start with their episodes "Is Acne Beautiful?" and "The Realities of Our Friendship."

This American Life from NPR

This American Life has been on the air since 1995, compiling stories around a certain theme every week for listeners. Host Ira Glass put together a playlist for newcomers: New to This American Life?

Podcast Recommendations for Teachers

There are podcasts for almost every professional audience, and educators are no exception. Check out some of the podcasts below for professional development tips and storytelling for teachers.

#EdChat Radio from BAM Radio Network

Weekly highlights and conversation about the #EdChat Twitter are among discussion topics for educators.

10 Minute Teacher Show from Vicki Davis

A brief episode every weekday brings teachers 10 minutes of professional development. The host provides a documentation template for educators who want to receive continuing education credits for listening.

The Creative Classroom from John Spencer

Host John Spencer spends about 20 minutes every Monday exploring the creative process: How can teachers use strategic confusion? What can food trucks teach us about hybrid learning?

Cult of Pedagogy from Jennifer Gonzalez

Host Jennifer Gonzalez interviews educators, students and parents about the biggest topics in education right now. Educational technology, school reform and classroom management are all fair game.

Educational Duct Tape from Jake Miller

This podcast focuses on educational technology as a tool to solve problems in the classroom and meet goals.

Teaching Hard History from Learning for Justice

Host Dr. Hasan Kwame Jeffries starts with the history of chattel slavery and continues through the Jim Crow era, sharing lessons many don't learn in the classroom and advice for teachers who want to change that.

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Using Podcasting in the Classroom: Activities and Recommendations

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The shift from listening at home to using podcasts in the classroom is not without cause. Speaking and listening skills are a part of the Common Core standards

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Full disclosure - this is from Apple Teaching & Learning forum, so it is a bit of an endorsement for Garageband. That being said, this teacher's journey shows how to make something new again...with podcasting.

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You know how you sometimes get in a rut as a classroom teacher? It's the fourth, fifth, sixth.....time I'm teaching this unit. It could really us a breath of fresh air! Granted I was always changing, modifying, updating my lessons, but you know what I mean. Each year in my 4th grade classroom, we would follow the Iditarod dog sled race that takes place each year in March in Alaska. We would study the history of the event, research the dogs and mushers and what it takes to compete in an event like this. This was a cross-curricular unit, hitting on standards for almost all my subject areas. With all the talk of dogs, adventure and competition, It typically was a very popular unit in my classroom. Yet, I was in need of some fresh inspiration.

I had recently started listening to Podcasts. I loved this form of media, because it allowed me to multi-task on a whole new level. I could run and listen, ride in my car and listen, clean the house, etc. That same year, our district had brought in an Apple Professional Learning Specialist to run a session on recording in GarageBand. As part of the workshop, we did a very simple podcast project. This started the wheels of inspiration inside my brain. I thought, "Could my 4th graders do this? Could I incorporate this into my Iditarod unit? What would it take to actually publish the podcast on Apple Podcasts?" I had more questions than answers, but I knew that this was something I was willing to take on. It could be a huge flop, but I it also could be a pretty awesome experience for my students.
Enter I-Kid-A-Pod
You know that phrase-building the airplane while you're flying it? Yep, that's pretty much how my first year of podcasting went with my students. Quite literally I was one step ahead of my students as we were figuring this out together. With that said, here is a little how I introduced my students to podcasting and eventually had them producing an episode a day and publishing it on Apple Podcasts. It is important to note that we are 1:1 iPad district for grades K-12.

Step 1: What are Podcasts? (1 month prior to starting the Iditarod unit) We started by learning more about the history of podcasts and subscribing to a few kid-friendly favorites. We learned how to ensure that our settings of Podcasts were set correctly so we didn't have 1,000 episodes downloading and filling up all of the space on our iPads. We also explored how they could download specific episodes so that they could listen on the go. I then told them to just spend some time listening to podcasts. Their goal was to listen to at least two episodes from at least three different podcasts. I also asked them think about what all podcasts have in common while they were listening.

Step 2: The Podcast Framework: Now that my students had some familiarity with podcasting, we talked about the similarities: they are focused on a topic/theme, music is consistent with each episode, often have special music for special features, hosts talk casually, usually only 1-2 hosts, can contain advertisements/sponsors, logo, etc.

Step 3: Getting to Know GarageBand: We started by having an in-depth conversation about the music within a podcast: Intro, Segment Change, and Outro (Bumpers). We talked about how the music/instruments tended to match the theme of the podcast. From there, we started by just playing in GarageBand. We did a scavenger hunt for instruments/loops that conveyed a particular feeling/mood: excitement, reminiscent, mystery, etc. We then introduced a bumper contest for our podcast. Everyone had to enter and create a 5-10 recording in GarageBand.

Step 4: Plan your Podcast: The Iditarod race typically lasts between 9-14 days. We wanted to spend some time giving our audience some important information before the start of the race, so we wanted to start recording one week prior to the race. We would publish an episode a day for approximately 21 days. I divided my class into 5 teams. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc. The day their group was responsible for publishing their episode. Since all podcasts follow a similar format, we had a graphic organizer (see attached numbers doc) to help organize our information.

Step 5: Get out of their way. Once we started publishing,our classroom turned into a mini news room. When they weren't researching, they were writing scripts, editing episodes or working down on the floor with me on specific reading skills during guided reading. They developed their own method for not duplicating stories, vocabulary (Mushing Lingo) or featured dogs and mushers.
Things to consider:

Get Creative: Yes, I still had to run those guided reading groups. My students didn't know how I formed my Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday....groups. I 100% based it on specific reading skills that we needed to be working on. So when they weren't working on their podcast, they were down on the floor finding the main idea and supporting details in a piece of non-fiction.

How do you actually publish a podcast on Apple Podcasts? You can use the Anchor app for free, however there is no control over the advertisements that may be included in your students episodes. The alternative is to use a service to host your RSS. I used PodBean, which I have been very happy with.

Make use of Community Resources: I invited a radio announcer and a reporter from our local paper to come in and talk to my students about researching stories, reporting and how to have good etiquette when speaking on the air.

Take the Time to Listen: After each episode was published, we took the time as a class to listen. We then talked about glows and grows and how we could make it even better. I truly believe this was a key component in my students' growth throughout this project.

Things I hadn't anticipated:
Enter the Paparazzi: I didn't expect our podcast to get any attention outside our immediate families. Wowza. With a PodBean subscription, you have access to your analytics. We quickly found out that we had listeners all around the globe. How did this happen? I really have no idea, except that I would tweet out each and every new episode. Our podcast also was noticed by Alaska Public Media who was also working on a podcast, Iditapod, and decided to interview my students and I on their podcast. Not only that, but some of the mushers caught wind of our podcast and reached out with appreciation! But for my students, none of that really mattered. All that mattered was the fact that their families were listening. Oh the importance of Real-World learning!

Remember How this All Started? Remember how I said that I was just kind of bored with my prior winter survival stories, and that is the reason why I started the podcast? Well, little did I know how much more value this experience would bring to my classroom. Here are just a few examples:

My students reading, researching, writing and summarizing skills significantly improved

Their confidence in speaking in front of their peers improved

Students that once never turned in an assignment, were now showing up early to class, wanting to get a start on their latest research or writing their piece for the podcast

Mini roles quickly developed within their teams. Passions for editing, writing, researching and speaking quickly emerged.

My students continued to listen to podcasts well after this unit. Frequently coming in to share something new they learned or a new podcast to subscribe to. And when they moved on to 5th grade, they continually asked their teacher if they could create a podcast!

I'm proud to say, that even though I have now transitioned into a new role in my district, the I-Kid-A-Pod podcast continues. It has been picked up by a couple other teachers! Take a listen as they just wrapped up their 7th season!

Want to get started on something like this in your classroom? Check out my Numbers guide to help you take those first steps!

Attachments

Getting Started with Podcasts.numbers

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It Started with a Little Boredom and A lot of Inspiration. You know how you sometimes get in a rut as a classroom teacher? It's the fourth, fifth, ...

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Looking for some Canadian history content? Check out Leah and Falen in this podcast, where the explore popular, and not-so-popular topics in out Canadian history. Using an entertaining combination of research and humour, these folxs provide some unique viewpoints on the "beautiful, terrible and weird histories of this land" (CBC Listen).

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The Secret Life of Canada | CBC Podcasts | CBC Listen

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The Secret Life of Canada is a podcast about the country you know and the stories you don’t. Join hosts Leah-Simone Bowen and Falen Johnson as they reveal the beautiful, terrible and weird histories of this land. Season 5 premieres on March 23, 2023 with episodes weekly.

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In this podcast three students share their thoughts on intergeneration trauma through exploring the similarities between the CBC podcast "Finding Cleo" and Katherena Vermette's novel "The Break." Thanks to our students for sharing their work!

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Looking for some examples of PBL? Check out this site for a list of examples you can incorporate into your lessons today!

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Project Based Learning (PBL) is a teaching method in which students are engaged in learning through active exploration. In PBL, classrooms are organized so that students work together on real-world tasks or problems.

There are many benefits of project based learning. Perhaps the most notable benefit is that it allows students to learn by doing. When students are actively engaged in projects, they are more likely to retain what they have learned. Additionally, project based learning can help students develop 21st century skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, and collaboration. This form of learning is an excellent way to engage students in learning and prepare them for success in the real world.

PBL can be used in any subject area and is adaptable to any grade level. It is an effective way to engage all learners, including English language learners and students with special needs.

It is important to remember that PBL is not a one-size-fits-all approach - it should be adapted to meet the needs of your students and the curriculum.

SmartLab Learning understands that no two students learn the same way. They help schools implement standards-aligned, individualized learning solutions that meet the unique needs of every learner through a variety of hands-on, engaging activities.
Explore project-based learning principles for elementary schools >> 12 Real World Examples of Project Based Learning in the Classroom
1. One-to-One Computing Projects

One-to-one computing projects are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, each student is given a computer to use for the duration of the project. Students use their computers to research, write, and publish their work. This type of project requires students to be responsible for their own learning and allows them to work at their own pace.

An example of a one-to-one computing project would be having your students create a website where they research the topic, develop the content, and design the layout for their website.

2. Collaborative Classroom Projects

Collaborative classroom projects are a great way to encourage students to work together. In this type of project, students are divided into groups and each group is responsible for completing a task or solving a problem. This type of project encourages students to communicate and work together to find solutions.

For instance, have your students work together to create a video about a particular topic. Each group would be responsible for researching the topic, writing the script, and filming the video.

3. Research Projects

Research projects are an excellent way for students to learn about a topic. In this type of project, students are given a topic to research. They then use their research to write a paper or create a presentation. This type of project allows students to develop their research skills and learn about a variety of topics.

For example, have your students choose a current event to research. Once they have chosen their topic, they write a paper explaining their findings. Alternatively, they could create a presentation to share with the class.

4. STEM projects

STEM projects are an excellent way to engage students in science, technology, engineering, and math. In this type of project, students use their knowledge of STEM to solve a problem or complete a task. This type of project encourages students to think critically and apply their knowledge to real-world situations.

Asking your students to design and build a model bridge is an example of a STEM project. They will need to research different types of bridges, consider the materials they will use, and test their bridge to see if it can hold weight.

5. Arts Projects

Arts projects are an excellent way to engage students in the arts. In this type of project, students use their creativity to create a piece of art. This type of project allows students to express themselves and explore their creative side.

For instance, have your students work together to create a mural. They will work to conceptualize the mural, design it, plan it, and then paint it. Art projects provide opportunities for your students to express their creativity and work together as a team.

6. Community Service Projects

Community service projects are an excellent way to engage students in the community. In this type of project, students work with a local organization to complete a service project. This type of project allows students to learn about the needs of the community and how they can help. Additionally, community service projects can help students develop empathy and compassion for others.

Your students can connect with the local community by working with a nearby food bank to sort and distribute food. This type of project allows your students to learn about the needs of the community and how they can help those in need. Additionally, it fosters empathy for others who are struggling.

7. Technology Projects

Technology projects are an excellent way to engage students in technology. In this type of project, students use technology to complete a task or solve a problem. This type of project allows students to learn about different types of technology and how to use them.

Creating and producing a podcast is an example of a technology project. Students research the topic, develop the script, record, and then publish the podcast.

8. Field Trips

Field trips are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, students visit a location that is related to their studies. This type of project allows students to see firsthand how their studies relate to the real world. Additionally, field trips can help students develop a sense of curiosity and exploration.

For example, take your students on a field trip to a local museum. This would allow them to see how the exhibits relate to their current studies and apply to real-world concepts.

9. Internships

Internships are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, students work with a business or organization to gain real-world experience. This type of project allows students to learn about a variety of topics and develop important skills, including responsibility and professionalism.

You may have your students intern with a local business or organization. This would provide them with the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of a business or organization.

10. Mock Trials

Mock trials are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, students act as lawyers and witnesses in a simulated court case. Mock trials allow students to learn about the legal system and how it works. Additionally, these projects can help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Have your students participate in a mock trial. Students will take on various courtroom roles, such as the judge, defense attorney, and witnesses. They will prepare their cases and simulate a real trial.

11. Student-led Conferences

Student-led conferences are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, students lead a conference with their parents or guardians to discuss their progress in school. This type of project allows students to take ownership of their learning and communicate their progress.

A student-led conference requires students to prepare samples of their learning to show their parents and discuss both their strengths and areas of need. These conferences help them develop communication and leadership skills.

12. Class Debates

Class debates are an excellent way to engage students in learning. In this type of project, students debate a topic or issue. This type of project allows students to learn about different perspectives and develop their argumentation skills.

Select a topic or issue for your students to debate in class and assign students to be pro or against the topic. Researching and debating fosters their development of critical thinking and communication skills.

These are just a few examples of project based learning that can be done in the classroom and can all be done in any grade level and can be adapted to fit specific curriculum and individual student needs.

SmartLab Learning's open-ended projects at multiple challenge levels allow students to shape and expand learning around their own interest, abilities, and learning styles.

Get creative and think about real-world problems and scenarios that your students might be faced with outside the classroom. There are so many possibilities...with SmartLab Learning, the sky's the limit!
How to implement project-based learning in high school classrooms >> Project-Based Learning Lesson Plans
A project-based learning lesson plan is typically more hands-on and interactive than a traditional lesson plan. A PBL lesson plan often focuses on problem-solving and real-world applications, while a traditional lesson plan may focus more on rote memorization. In addition, a PBL lesson plan is usually more student-centered, while a traditional lesson plan may be more teacher-centered.

Where to begin

Creating project-based learning lesson plans can be a daunting task. When creating your lesson plans, it is important to remember the following tips:

1. Start by brainstorming ideas for projects that align with your curriculum.

2. Once you have an idea for a project, break it down into smaller tasks that need to be completed.

3. Assign roles and responsibilities to each student.

4. Create a timeline for the project.

5. Decide how you will assess the project.

There are many challenges to creating effective PBL lesson plans, but you don't have to do it alone. SmartLab Learning helps schools and educators design and implement engaging PBL STEAM learning environments that link to core academic content and foster the development of important academic and life skills. The hands-on, authentic activities allow students to construct their own meaning and explore topics in greater depth.

Conclusion

Project-based learning is an excellent way to engage students in learning. By following these tips and partnering with SmartLab Learning, you can create a successful project-based learning lesson plan covering a variety of topics to support your students in developing their skills. PBL can be used at any grade level and can be adapted to fit any curriculum.

PBL you can help your students develop a variety of important skills, including critical thinking, collaboration, and communication. If you are looking for ways to increase student engagement, consider incorporating project-based learning into your classroom.

Look here for more STEM + PBL examples including details about what makes for effective PBL + STEM programs and lessons.

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12 Project Based Learning (PBL) Examples

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SmartLab Learning 12 Project Based Learning (PBL) Examples. Project-based learning environments and experiences with a STEM focus.

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Hey Teens!! Not sure what you want to read next. Check out the Toronto Public Library for some suggestions.

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Books and reading recommendations for teens from Toronto Public Library.

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Challenge your students to consider some of the old fav's and a new light. Will your favourite childhood movie pass these tests?

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Shake it up a little bit in your classroom. Check out these creative ways to check in with students' understanding on a variety of topics you are working through in your classes.

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The Institute for Arts Integration and STEAM

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13 Strategies for Making Thinking Visible in the Classroom

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One key tool for developing and assessing 21st century skills is by making thinking visible. Here are 13 visual thinking strategies you can use today.

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Thanks to the support of our teachers and teacher librarian at JASS, our amazing students are thrilled to have Pulitzer-prize winning Cree journalist, Connie Walker reach out after listening to their podcast.