I am so pumped to launch this five part series about how a class of 8th grade language arts students took a project and made something happen. I was lucky enough to see this project unfold through the lens of one of our amazing educators at Bettendorf Middle School. Lisa Barnes, an 8th grade language arts teacher took a chance. She pushed her comfort zone and took an idea she developed to a new level. She had the kids move from just research and regurgitation which so often happens in schools into a phase of Doing Something! They students had to act on their own learning. It was interesting to work with them briefly when I had time. They did not believe that it mattered. They did not believe that their voice held any power. Some still are not quite sure that their voice matters. However, they stuck with it and through the journey they found their voice. This week I will be sharing a post each day for five days. Today the goal is to simply introduce you to the project. I will share a short podcast we recorded so you can hear from the teacher herself about this project. There is also an project outline form. I will also share a few other things as well. This is the setup. The next four days I will share out the projects the students developed. They are really good. We have all types of students involved in this project. This is what makes it so special. Please reach out. Leave comments, ask questions, let the students what you think of their work. The more we can bring back to the classroom the more powerful this all becomes. Enjoy Lisa Barnes, 8th grade Language Arts teacher explains the project in this podcast (insert podcast) Project Forms To get them thinking about ideas to enact upon we did a brainwriting activity. Brainwriting Activity, not Brainstorming http://wp.me/p4covo-121 If there are other things you want information about please let us know. Tomorrow we will show you the first batch of student work. If you want to reach out to Lisa Barnes here is her email lbarnes@bettendorf.k12.ia.us Read more at www.coffeeforthebrain.com/fewbadapples