Since most of my classwork is project based, I seem to be having a problem with classroom management when students finish their projects early. I try to assign a deadline that will benefit all students. Therefore, most students finish at least one or two days before the due date. I hesitate to let them work ahead to the next assignment, which will only lead to the same problem down the road. I have implemented some "side work" if a student completes their project early. But my question is: Do I grade their "side work"? Can I require them to work on something else if it is not for a grade? The "side work" is a nothing painful, in fact some of them work better knowing they have something extra fun to look forward to. What can I do with the ones who refuse to stay on task when their project is complete?
--Grummer
I would start the class with a worm up then ask a the students some question about what they did the day be for you start the labs that you are doing. As you go around the room step in to the group and ask some more question or if they need some help or understand what they are doing so they understand what you are showing them in thees labs.
ReplyDeleteI have similar problems with group projects. Some groups will finish early and want to talk with their classmates. The problem is that the quality of their work may not be that good and the student will be done with the project. I try to encourage the student to take it to the next level with their project, but they fight it. One suggest is to shorten the time line for the project's due date and offers bonus points for taking the project to the next level.
ReplyDeleteGrummsy -
ReplyDeleteBeing a fellow EDD teacher, I encounter the same issue. I have found two solutions to work thus far. A.) Make the students assist other students to reinforce learning / create class leadership, etc. B.) Institute a "7 of 10" program where students are required to choose 7 projects to complete out of 10 options. These are to be worked on during free time, before or after school. sub days, etc. This is an easy way to create a portfolio too. C.) Have students work on a sketch portfolio or quick rendering. These little side projects are great because they are long term and something you can add right at the beginning so there is no question about whether they have to do it...no choice..because at the end of the semester you either have it done or you don't! :) Hope this helps.