Crittertrails? Hamsters? Problem-Based Learning? The Instructional Coaches worked with our school enrichment coach and the 8th grade algebra teacher to create lessons to foster Problem-Based Learning. The Crittertrail Company donated materials to assist 8th grade students to create their own habitat in algebra class.
Volume formulas of sphere, cone and cylinder were reviewed before beginning the actual construction of the habitat. Students explored with the Crittertrail parts to build background knowledge and asked inquiring questions. These questions were posted on an online Padlet. A problem was presented to the class which guided the students in the development of their Crittertrail habitat. A rubric was introduced to give the students clear expectations as they reflected and self assessed.
Google Sketchup, is a 3-D designing program, which students used on a laptop to create their habitat throughout the lesson. The technology aided students to manipulate the habitat virtually while recreating the Crittertrail parts. Learning the Sketchup program while doing the project, provided an authentic technology tool.
The 8th graders presented their habitats to the class. Some schematics included 2 levels, tunnels for exploring, and extra rooms for the hamsters. Each student reflected on their learning by completing an exit slip. Overall, the 8th grade mathematicians learned from this experience and would like to do another problem based learning project.
Please view our imovie of the Crittertrail journey.
Volume formulas of sphere, cone and cylinder were reviewed before beginning the actual construction of the habitat. Students explored with the Crittertrail parts to build background knowledge and asked inquiring questions. These questions were posted on an online Padlet. A problem was presented to the class which guided the students in the development of their Crittertrail habitat. A rubric was introduced to give the students clear expectations as they reflected and self assessed.
Google Sketchup, is a 3-D designing program, which students used on a laptop to create their habitat throughout the lesson. The technology aided students to manipulate the habitat virtually while recreating the Crittertrail parts. Learning the Sketchup program while doing the project, provided an authentic technology tool.
The 8th graders presented their habitats to the class. Some schematics included 2 levels, tunnels for exploring, and extra rooms for the hamsters. Each student reflected on their learning by completing an exit slip. Overall, the 8th grade mathematicians learned from this experience and would like to do another problem based learning project.
Please view our imovie of the Crittertrail journey.