Independent Studies

Kaleb ThompsonMihoko Chida

Peters 4-6 ElementaryGarden Grove Unified

Peters 4-6 Elementary

• Garden Grove Unified School District• Title I • Ethnically diverse population • Large population of English Language learners• One of three sites that services Gifted students • Self contained GATE

Our Motivation

• Underachieving students• A lack of creativity and passion in the learning

process• Challenging students who exceed standards or

are ahead of curriculum pacing • Overcoming procrastination • Preparation for Intermediate School

The Big Dilemma

• How do we prevent our students from mentally checking out after the state test?

The Research• According to Johnson and Goree, Betts states:

“When compared to learning styles of more average students, gifted students like instructional strategies that emphasize independence such as independent study and discussion.”(Johnson and Goree, 2005)

• In defining independent studies, scholars such as Reis and Renzuilli emphasize the importance of “real world investigations” in their definitions. (Johnson and Goree, 2005)

The Definition of an Independent Study

An independent study is a planned research process thata. is self-directedb. is similar to one used by a practicing

professional or is authentic to the disciplinec. is facilitated and monitored by the teacherd. focuses on lifelike problems that go beyond the

regular class setting(Johnson and Goree, 2005)

GATE Standards

• The differentiated curriculum facilitates development of ethical standards, positive self-concepts, sensitivity and responsibility to others, and contributions to society.

GATE EC M3.1d

• The core curriculum is compacted for gifted students so that learning experiences are developmentally appropriate (not redundant) to their needs, interests, and abilities.

GATE EC C3.1a

GATE Standards

• The differentiated curriculum utilizes a variety of teaching and learning patterns: including opportunities for independent study.

GATE EC C3.2b

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like an ArchaeologistYou are an Archaeologist who just discovered an

artifact that was invented/innovated and used by an ancient civilization (Mesopotamia, Hebrews, Egypt, India, China, Greece, or

Rome). You must prove the significance of the artifact to the daily life of the civilization by

describing in detail how it allowed the civilization to survive and/or advance.

Think like an Archaeologist

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like an ArchitectYou are an architect who will design a house following

the local building codes identifying the minimum and maximum requirements, as well as maintaining a specified budget. You will make decisions about

special features to include, as well as the location and size of each individual room. Finally you will draw a scaled blueprint of house depicting all the specifics determined during the planning process. Once the house commission has approved the blueprint, you

will build a scale model of the house.

Think like an Architect

Think like an Architect

Think like an Architect

Think like an Architect

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like a Comic Strip ArtistYou are a Comic Strip Artist who has been asked to create a new strip for national syndication. You will

create a new cast of characters, and develop a storyline that evolves over the course of 5-7 days. Each day’s strip should continue to develop a story

which will reach a climax and be resolved by the end of the series.

Think like a Comic Strip Artist

Think like a Comic Strip Artist

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like a Fashion Designer You are a Fashion Designer who is trying to initiate a

new and exciting fashion trend for a specific population. You will identify the population (cliental)

you are designing for as well as the interests of the client. You will sketch 5 - 7 outfits that address the

desires of your clients. Finally, you will fabricate one design that most exemplifies your entire collection

using appropriate tools and materials.

Think like a Fashion Designer

Think like a Fashion Designer

Think like a Fashion Designer

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like an ArtistYou are an Artist who is struggling to find inspiration for your next masterpiece. You

decide to “return to your roots” by studying the classical works of your early peers. In

doing so, you discover the most remarkable piece of art you have ever seen. After

analyzing the artwork, you are able to create your own masterpiece.

Think like an Artist

Think like an Artist

Think like an Artist

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like an Investor You are an Investment Banker who is hired to

quickly earn money for a group of eager entrepreneurs. You must use your knowledge of current trends to invest wisely in the stock market. You must use your client’s money to buy and sell stocks on a weekly basis in order to greatly increase the initial investments of

your clients.

Think like an Investor

Think like an Investor

Examples of Independent Studies

Think like a Musician

You are an aspiring musician desperately waiting to be noticed by a major recording label executive. In

order to expedite the process, you will write a new song that will appeal to a large audience, therefore quickly climbing the charts achieving number one

status. Finally you will test your fans reaction when you perform your song at an upcoming show.

Classroom Implementation Teacher

• Determine how students will choose project

• Explain how a large project is a series of smaller tasks

• Model backwards planning • Decide when students will work

on projects in class• Schedule meetings with students

to monitor progress• Allow for collaboration between

students doing the same project

Students • Students will choose project(s) • Break up project into smaller

task • Use a calendar to schedule

personal due dates • Decide what materials to bring

to class and when to bring them • Meet with teacher to clarify

project and share progress • Collaboration with peers who

are doing the same project

How to Design a Project• Brainstorm Profession (Discipline)– Notice student interests– Consider standard(s) – Consider curricular connections – Consider product(s)

• US Department of Labor– For a complete list with job descriptions: http://www.bls.gov/oco/

(Search by field)– For kids: http://www.bls.gov/k12/index.htm (Search by subject

area)

• Propose a problem related to the profession• Align to grade level standards

How to Design a Project