constructivist approach in teaching / Lesson Plan

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Objective

By the end of this lesson, the student will understand the principles of constructivism in learning and apply them to create a personal project that demonstrates their knowledge and skills. The student will also reflect on how their learning process can be enhanced through exploration, collaboration, and critical thinking.

Materials and Prep

  • Notebook or sketchbook
  • Pens or pencils
  • Access to a quiet space for reflection and creation
  • Time for discussion and exploration

Before the lesson, ensure the student is familiar with basic concepts of constructivism, such as learning through experience, collaboration, and critical thinking. Encourage them to think about how they learn best.

Activities

  • Personal Learning Reflection:

    The student will spend 15 minutes writing about a recent learning experience. They should focus on what they learned, how they learned it, and what strategies helped them the most. This reflection will serve as a foundation for their project.

  • Collaborative Brainstorming:

    The student will engage in a brainstorming session where they can discuss their reflection with you. Together, they will identify key themes and ideas that can be turned into a project. This encourages collaboration and critical thinking.

  • Project Creation:

    The student will choose a project that reflects their learning experience. This could be a presentation, a creative writing piece, or a visual art project. They will have the freedom to express their understanding in a way that resonates with them.

  • Presentation and Feedback:

    The student will present their project to you, explaining their thought process and the learning that took place. After their presentation, provide constructive feedback and encourage them to reflect on the process.

Talking Points

  • "Constructivism is all about building your own understanding. What do you think that means for your learning?"
  • "How did your past experiences shape what you learned? Can you think of a time when you learned something important through doing?"
  • "Collaboration is key! How can sharing ideas with others help you learn better?"
  • "What strategies did you find most helpful in your learning process? Let's think about how you can apply those to your project."
  • "When you present your project, think about the journey you took to get there. What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?"