O Canada
"O Canada!" First grade teachers approached me, a fourth grade teacher, asking if my students would be interested in working on a project about Canada with their students. Of course we would! My students love opportunities where they can be leaders and help younger students, and I love giving them these opportunities as part of a significant learning environment. Collaboration and communication are 21st century skills needed to succeed now and for the future. It is not about the content of Canada; it is about learning within the context of group work and creating a project together.
The first grade teachers organized the project and invited my older students as project managers. Students were to research Canada using various tools, record facts learned about Canada on a shared Google Slide, and create a video advertisement about Canada. The first graders were also able to video chat a class in Canada for a more authentic learning experience.
What did these students learn and practice besides information about Canada?
collaboration
communication/public speaking practice
leadership
technology skills
problem solving
creativity
critical thinking
research
Students worked in an authentic, learner-centered environment and were engaged. These are the authentic learning experiences that allow students to make connections and make meaning of their learning. It was fun, memorable, and meaningful.
Check out the videos HERE.
