A collaborative independent learning project in the form of a puppet play being presented to the class.
In my intermediate multiage classroom when students finished their work in a couple of self-paced areas, they were eligible to do an independent learning project. Students loved doing these projects perhaps because they had so much choice in their creation. They decided on the topic they wished to learn about, the product they would produce, and the means of sharing what they’d learned. I did not grade any of these projects but I did support and encourage the students.
Below is a copy of my Independent Learning Contract. When students were ready and had an idea of something they would like to learn, they had a brief conference with me to discuss it. During that conference I helped them refine their idea and begin filling out the contract. They then took it home to discuss the project with their parents, bringing it back to me signed and with any changes. I would add my signature and give any assistance they needed in gathering materials and in getting started. After that they worked on their project independently at appropriate times during the day, both at home and at school. I checked on progress from time to time and when the project was complete we would set up a time for it to be shared with the rest of the class.
Independent Learning Contract
name: __________________
date: _______________
Before you begin working on your independent project, you will need to create a plan of what you want to learn about and how you want to show what you’ve learned. You will also need to share this plan with your parents and your teacher. This contract is a part of your project. In addition, it will help guide you in making your plan. Please use a pencil as you may wish to change some of your plan when you share it with your parents or teacher.
1. Questions related to a topic that you wish to learn more about.
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
2. Possible resources you will need (may include places to visit, people to interview,
books, computer databases, etc.).
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
3. How will you show what you’ve learned?
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________
When will your work begin? __________
When do you think it will end?__________
When do you wish to present your finished project to the class? _________________
______________________________________________________________
_________________
student signature
_________________ _________________
parent signature(s)
_________________
teacher signature
Multiage-Education 