Integrating Project-Based Learning into Your Math Workshop Routine
A frequent query from fellow educators on my Instagram is, “How do you juggle the regular math syllabus, Math Workshop, and project-based learning (PBL)?” I often emphasize that these aspects of my teaching aren’t isolated. Instead, they blend seamlessly during the Math Workshop. Given the growing interest in this topic, I thought it would be helpful to elucidate how I incorporate PBL into the Math Workshop.
It’s a common misunderstanding that PBL is an additional layer to the regular Math Workshop and teaching. Instead, it can enhance your lessons, replacing some repetitive tasks. In my third-grade setup, PBL initiatives take over rigorous problem-solving activities and assignments from platforms like Khan Academy.
Snapshot: Displaying Core Inspiration’s math rotation slides highlighting PBL activities. Nearby is the Quadrilateral City project.
In this article, I’ll shed light on a couple of strategies for embedding PBL into your workshop sessions to deepen students’ understanding:
- Units that benefit immensely from a comprehensive project, such as those on multiplication, data, and geometry.
- Units where certain students have already grasped the concepts and need advanced activities to further their knowledge, like the ones on place value and timekeeping.
Visual: A teal clipboard showcasing PBL strategies for both class-wide and individual advanced learner enrichment.
Class-Wide Enrichment with Project-Based Learning There are units where the concepts are clear-cut and would gain value when put in a practical context. Consider the third-grade unit on classifying quadrilaterals. While recognizing and categorizing quadrilaterals requires consistent practice, real-world application enhances mastery.
Instead of repetitive memorization drills, students can better understand these shapes through practical applications. This is where our Quadrilateral City project comes in during the geometry segment in spring. The usual Math Workshop still runs daily, with a slight variation in rotation activities.
Delving Deeper: An overview of the Math Workshop rotations during a class-wide PBL initiative.
PBL in ‘Meet the Teacher’ Sessions This slot morphs into a project assistance desk. I appreciate the flexibility it offers, allowing me to attend to students needing special assistance. Some days, I focus on clusters struggling with similar issues, while other days are dedicated to individualized support.
PBL in ‘At Your Seat’ Sessions Here, students briefly touch upon the day’s lesson via a quick assignment. After a self-check, they jump into their daily project tasks. Given each student’s unique pace, I’ve crafted DIY Project Guides. These manuals are designed to foster independence and cater to various learners in my class.
PBL in ‘Technology’ Slot With a focus on the PBL, routine tech assignments pause, allowing students ample project time during this rotation.
PBL in ‘Hands-On’ Slot Students can either indulge in interactive games or progress with their projects. The allure of projects usually keeps them engrossed.
Visual: Geometry enrichment tools available for students.
Tailored Enrichment for Proficient Learners via PBL In some units, a few students exhibit mastery right from the preliminary assessment. Instead of revisiting concepts, these advanced learners embark on a PBL journey. The DIY Project Guides ensure these learners remain autonomous, guaranteeing everyone’s learning requirements are addressed.
Structure for PBL Engaged Students: The schedule offers versatility. They can immerse in their projects throughout or opt for a balanced workshop approach.
To ensure commitment, they update their weekly PBL Math Workshop plans. I also have touchpoints with these students twice weekly to address concerns and assess their progress.
Why PBL Isn’t a Fixture in Every Unit PBL experiences often become cherished memories. However, using them in every unit isn’t advisable. It’s pivotal for students to experience math diversely. A mix of projects, performance tasks, word problems, tech-based practice, and gameplay creates well-rounded math enthusiasts.
