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http://go.mace-ks.org/handouts/course/view.php?id=199 Practical Projects for Elementary Students

This presentation focused on project based learning in the elementary classroom. Project based learning uses multiple intelligences, promotes higher order thinking skills, and crosses curricular subject areas. Key questions should drive the project with the teacher being the facilitator. Thinking of the project is the fun part! The possibilities are endless. Students could design a bedroom, yard, or a newspaper. Students could decide on a career or develop a business plan. Presentations can be done using power points or iMovies. Rubrics would be the tool to grade projects.

http://go.mace-ks.org/handouts/course/view.php?id=169 Teaching with the Nintendo Wii

This presentation discussed using the Wii to implement the scientific method. Using the Nintendo Wii will promote intrinsic motivation for students, improve the retention, and makes the learning meaningful. Students begin by thinking of a question. They formulate a hypothesis, research, design an experiment, complete the experiment and collect data, analyze data and draw a conclusion, and finally communicate results. The students can use the Wii gaming system as their tool. A sample question could be can the fifth grade girls beat the fourth grade boys at bowling. By following the rest of the steps, the students have used the scientific process. This method of learning provides great opportunities for differentiated instruction. The presenter gave numerous examples of question and games which could be implemented. She also included how the NCTM standards are met doing this project. She included a time line for planning. This was a very useful presentation because of the numerous examples shared.