Curriculum
Branch line School is chartered through Saginaw Valley State University and functions as a multi-age level, project-based learning school. We used a variety of resources to developed projects that were meaningful and covered the necessary content. Over the course of the year, I visited two schools that shared a similar philosophy. As I documented my trip, I brought back with me a load of inspiration and presented the concrete ideas to my colleagues. Changes we made included extending projects to six week intervals with smaller case studies in between and implementing Monday morning and Friday afternoon meetings to build culture.
Project Highlights:
Project Highlights:
- Forces in Motion
- Zombie Apocalypse
- Schoolyard Habitat
Monday Morning/Friday Afternoon Meetings
I pulled topics from our mission statement and philosophy to focus on each week. To start each meeting, we read our mission statement as a school. Then, we discuss and define the topic. Next, we watch a video and debrief on how they may have reinforced or changed our definition. After, each table participates in a hands-on activity in which the older students work with younger students to read, write, and create piece of work that demonstrates understanding. Lastly, we join hands in a circle and send an impulse through the connection. This is to teach awareness of our physical bodies and our thoughts and words as well.
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