Back to Genius Hour

After a few years away from teaching the Gifted and Talented grade 8 class, I’m happy to have the chance to facilitate Genius Hour again!

Students will complete two Genius Hour projects this year, presenting the first in late February and the second mid June.

Genius Hour is a ‘learn to do’ project rather than a ‘learn about’ project. Students choose their topic, determine what they will learn, decide how they can demonstrate their learning, and plan the steps necessary to get there. Every Wednesday morning students will have a period to work on their project.

Students have the choice of working with a partner on one of the two projects or working solo on both. Regardless of whether or not they have a partner, each student will blog weekly to demonstrate their progress and reflect on their learning. Positive comments and questions are welcome.

After students present their learning, they’ll negotiate with me for their grade. Our decision will be based on use of class time, quality of blogging, evidence of learning, and quality of presentation. Some may not achieve their goals. That’s okay if their blogs demonstrate their efforts and their adaptations to their plans.

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