hyDROPonics

I guess I shouldn't be that surprised, really. The same one's that don't ever 'get it', don't. Once we got over the initial pronunciation of the word (it's not hyDROPonics) students were interested in growing plants without soil. They were also excited to hear that their parents might get mad if they look over their shoulder and see information about growing marijuana in their basement (not in the curriculum, BTW).

So today, after a little guidance about NOT growing enough food to feed the 6th grade cafeteria, they were off without much direction. They were asked to research the types of hydroponic systems and consider which type would work best for them for growing a lettuce plant. Many had plans of hanging pvc pipe from the rafters with complicated rigging and pumping systems. Their more grounded classmates then questioned how they planned to pay for and power this unit. No answer provided.

Others discussed simplicity, and seemed to realize that for 1 plant, simpler may be better.

I'm pleasantly surprised with the critical thinking that's going on with some of the students that don't do anything but sit and stare. Diagrams, balled up paper, and more diagrams are all signs that students are evaluating their own ideas and making adjustments based on their group's input.

I feel as though they need a little more 'direction' but I'm trying to resist giving them the right answer.

A new Challenge

So, we're off on a new edventure (coined?). Starting next week, 7th graders are taking on a Project Based Learning unit on plants. This year, instead of our traditional instruction intertwined with some outdoor activities and labs, students are going to be creating their own hydroponic setup and nurturing a plant with this setup.

So far, the amount of THINKING that goes into this has been massive. WHAT do we want them to do, HOW MUCH should they be directed as opposed to discover on their own, what are realistic expectations for 13 year olds, and how can we be sure they are actually LEARNING (after all, that's what they're supposed to be doing in school- right?)

Now that MY ideas of what the students will produce are all set, we'll see what they can come up with on their own.