Reading Reflection 10

It is often said it's not the destination that is important but the journey.  With students in a classroom you need to celebrate their successes in some way.  And also we need to thoughtfully reflect on the project and the steps we took and what worked and what didn't and what could we have done differently.  And finally what else is there to discover? 

As a teacher, setting time aside for the sake of reflection is very important.  It can be relaxed and a time to think and breathe and really pause.  Because students are often rushed and teachers as well, it is crucial to give an opportunity to think about the learning experience. 

It gives students a chance to ask questions, and try and figure out why it is ( if it is) important for them to be involved in this PBL.  Did it change them in someway?  How is the world better/worse for their efforts?  Maybe it's their community that was affected.  They can reflect on new skills, different perspectives, new realizations and new questions. 

With learning and growth comes new feelings, with the end of projects more feelings.  They need a chance to process those feelings.  Help point out positives.  If the school does not have a tradition of PBL now they do, they were the group that.........raised $1,000 for a homeless shelter, etc. 

Once they do that, they can have pride and take pride in their efforts, class and school.  At the end of the project or during you should celebrate as a class, the hard work and effort involved.   This is an inclusive time.  Small and large successes and efforts should be noted and recognized.  Progress should be as well. 

I love parties, celebrations.  Students can be excited and help plan the type of celebration, who to invite how to include say the 3rd grade pen pals in the party via Skype, etc.  This is a great time of sharing and establishing new norms and recognizing outstanding accomplishments.

This will be a part of our garden project because 3rd graders love a good celebration!