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This year I am trying out a new weekly assignment, Wonder Wednesdays. My students are required to choose their own wonder from Wonderopolis, read the information, and write a paragraph or two about their topic. I thought this would give them practice in nonfiction reading along with practice in writing informational paragraphs. I also wanted the element of choice involved. The students have been getting so excited about what they are learning that they can’t help but want to share. So I told them they could do a Wonder Presentation once each grading period.
Emily was the first to present this week. She became interested in electric eels. This proves how important choice is. I would never have thought she would be interested in eels, of all things, but her family went to the Aquarium this summer, and she saw a live one. When she discovered from Wonderopolis that electric eels are not actually eels, she wanted to “trick” the class. Not only that, she created a quiz and kept up with points making the whole presentation totally engaging.
https://app.emaze.com/@AIRTFIRQ/are-electric-eels
Andrew, 3rd grade, researched optical illusions. I had no idea there were different types. I encouraged him to try Emaze as a format for presenting his topic. Andrew is a gamer who is no stranger to technology. He created this presentation with ease. I love that this is a format that even my youngest students can use. Click on the image to see his presentation.
I am pleased that Wonder research has materialized into a student-led classroom. I value learning that is student-driven, when I can stand on the sidelines coaching, troubleshooting, and cheering them on.
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Margaret, as always I am amazed by your students. I am glad that I have gotten to know Emily, Andrew, and Vannisa through their work. Your energy for bringing the notion of self-efficacy to your classroom is to be applauded. Your students are not only independent learners but owners of their meaning making. As a Guide you must be so proud each night that you go home.
This looks like so much fun! I attended a great session on rethinking research at an Ohio Writing Project presentation yesterday. Your ideas would fit right into what she had to say – making research fun and all year long.
Sounds wonderful, Margaret. I enjoyed seeing what Emily & Andrew created, & really like your title today!