As students pursue their investigations, they should also be practicing social-emotional skills like communication and collaboration, and upon completion, they should know how to apply their learning to real-world problems. That’s what makes PBL so magical – you’re helping students acquire valuable knowledge that they can apply right now in their own community.

Examples of engaging PBL     

One great model for authentic project-based learning is the Blue Apple unit, Take a Stand. In this project, students take a stand in support of a public policy issue that matters to them. They learn about all sides of several topics like education and the environment. Then, through respectful discourse, they construct and articulate well-researched positions on a topic of their choice through an inspirational podcast. One class even shared a video where you can see how students are engaged, driven, and practicing their critical thinking skills!

Not only does the PBL unit come with rich resources such as a book list and content standards (which are great for busy teachers), but it also provides a degree of flexibility you don’t find in standard lessons. Consider a student who struggles with literacy–a project like Take a Stand can help them grasp concepts like sequencing, summarization, and themes all through hands-on learning. The same is true for concepts in math or science. Students who are normally challenged in these areas will have the opportunity to approach them from a different angle. Not only does this help them overcome a learning block, but it’s done in a way that’s memorable, meaningful, and fun!    

Getting started

I truly believe that now is the time to start implementing project-based learning in our classrooms. I feel the pandemic brought out a real craving for authenticity in our learning and relationships with one another. This new school year is a real opportunity to reimagine what teaching and learning can look like in our schools. If we approach things slowly and intentionally, we can change teaching and learning into what we got into this profession for it to look like. So, give project-based learning a try, and if you find yourself in need of a Fairy Godmother, please don’t hesitate to reach out!