Where to Start?
First, pick a theme! Every parade has a theme, so a Project Based Parade should have a theme! Dive into your curriculum to see what could be developed into a project with the outcome as a float-because that's the point of a parade, great floats! Here are two ideas:State Park Floats: This project explored both the state in general and the region of the US it is found in. It is primarily to learn about the 50 States.
National Park Floats: This project explored both the National Park's history and the ecosystems found there. It incorporated the food chain found in the National Park.
You see, both of these have a rich research base. So, another piece of advice when diving into your curriculum is to look for something with a rich research base. State flags, maps, park outlines, dates, ecosystems, tourist spots, etc. are all parts of the research base for this kind of project. What topic are you studying that can allow for this rich base to be met?
Technology Integration
Next, you need to think about how much technology integration do you want? Students can create research outcomes to accompany the float through the use of technology. PowerPoints and other documentation can be help students to organize and present the information that they need beyond the actual parade float. Consider this in your decision making process.State Project
National Park Project
Research Time
Questions about Research Time include how much of a guideline do you want to provide, how much time do students need, and do you want them to complete research in class or at home? This will also determine your lesson plans and the development of your research questions. This last point is key to where students go. Scaffolding them in their research will help them to feel successful throughout the process, whether completed at home or at school!
Presentions
Next, you will want to think about how the presentations in class will be planned and what you will need for them. Developing a rubric is SO important to this part-and the whole! Research says that when teachers provide a rubric, students can succeed at a greater rate. Plus, it eliminates any negotiation for students who do not complete the task. So, develop that rubric and get it into students hands!
Once you are ready to present, have volunteers go first. Students who are comfortable presenting will boost other's confidence and provide a foundation for others. I try to pick students I know will offer great presentations so that others see and know what the expectations are. This will often spur them into practicing more too!
The Parade
Finally, coordinate the parade beforehand! This means you should send our emails to your staff to let them know the day and time you will be parading! Students in other classes give the project builders the ooo's and ahh's that just make them feel successful! Visit as many grade levels and classes as possible! This means lots of eyes on their projects and a desire to make projects in the future! That's a key to great project success!Once you have engaged in a Project Based Parade you will fall in love and want to do it every year! Here are two projects to get you going - they provide everything you need for a great project parade!
As always, I'd love to hear from you and what you like to do for Project Based Learning! Drop a comment below or follow me over at Instagram or Facebook for classroom updates!
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