Chapters 4-6

Chapter 4- Although I know my first year using genius hour will be a trial/error for me I took away some key concepts from this chapter. In this chapter, I thought it was really important how it stated to structure unstructured time; at times genius hour could seem like a “free for all”. I would want to make sure to have a set date every week and a set time. I think it is also important to spend the first 3 quarters (for 2^nd graders) on team building activities. I love the idea of a reflection piece. In 2^nd grade, I foresee my students writing a sentence or two. It is going to take a lot of guidance the first 2-3 quarters for them to effectively reflect on their own.

Chapter 5- I truly enjoyed reading this chapter as it was geared towards the elementary level. Like I stated earlier, the first 3 quarters I plan on completing team building activities, Jodi’s suggestion on using “Who Would Win” books, and collecting ideas to learn about during the school year for genius hour. The last quarter of the school year when students will be completing their own project, they could take ideas from the board we have been adding to all year, learn about their own interests, or pick a topic/interest that I have provided.

Chapter 6- The idea of using a march madness type of bracket would be a great idea. At our last meeting, us teachers had a very difficult time sitting down and brainstorming what we were passionate about so I know some students will have the same type of struggle. Being able to bounce ideas off of one another would be beneficial students.