Love for Learning Through Projects

Trinity Middle School teachers go above and beyond to foster the love for learning that has been instilled in their students since their preschool days. One of the ways I have witnessed students being involved and excited about learning is when Kodi Dixon, 7th/8th grade Social Studies Teacher, assigns her “living museum” project in place of the first trimester final exam. Mrs. Dixon said that she loves to do a variety of projects in her classes for major grades because “Students are able to show me what they have learned and connect it to a timeline and map without me forcing them to cram the night before. I also love doing pick your own projects. This allowed students to shine where they feel comfortable. Some will build with their hands, some will create tests with study guides, some will write research papers. In history or is unique because I want connections, not memorization!” 

I have heard from many students that they enjoy when they get to do projects as major assignments rather than having traditional assessments that they have to study and memorize content for. Recently,  my 5th graders in ESS classes were working on a project for their science class where they created a “Critter Cafe” that aligns with their unit about Living Systems. One student told me “I like being able to use the stuff we learn in class to come up with ideas and draw things for the project and add my own style.” Emily DiBiaggio, 5th/6th Grade Science Teacher, says “I like to give projects that let students be creative. I believe it allows students to be more engaged in the project and allows them to apply concepts in class to real life.”

Students sometimes don’t even realize that they are applying concepts they’ve learned when they complete engaging classroom projects. These projects also allow for collaboration among students and chances to build on their teamwork skills. I’m eager to see the projects that are done by Middle School students throughout the remainder of the year and invite you to come walk through the Simmons building and take a look at some of the work displayed on the walls and glass cases.