A spark of an idea was ignited after a trip to the county fair. My boys were intrigued by all of the entries in the open class hall. We have been going to fairs since we had to lug them around in a stroller and change diapers in the 100 degree heat, but this is the first year that they got excited about all there was to observe. Their response was a desire to get involved. That spark has led to a discovery of a different type of learning. 

It started with the desire to mold Contenders, Open Class Entries, and Geography together. However, to do this, we would have little time for all of the great curriculum that I chose for the sixth grade. . . . I made a list of Open Class entires, matched them with countries, and started an idea of classes. Field trips to see how the medium of the art is created, volunteers to come and demonstrate the skill both at an elementary level and at a masters level. Geographical romps around the world to see where the masters came from – and what countries support those art forms.

This week I received an email that showed me that this was not a crazy idea nor a new idea at all.  It is called Projected Led Learning. I have spent the greater part of the last week looking up questions like “What is Project Led Learning?” and found the Y Guide Academy.  They showed me several ideas and offer those who do not want to put it together an great  price on a package Sccroll to the bottom of this article to find Project Ideas. In the middle of the article is how to sign up for their plans.

We have been learning this way since Nathan was five. In is 5th and 6th aged years of learning, this was all we did. He earned a ton of badges from Keepers of the Faith. However, as we entered the 7th – 10th year ages of learning those skill based learning lessons declined as we had to open up time for academics of reading, math and geography and spelling amongst others.

Now – looking into starting the middle school years, I find myself right back to the beginning – learning through doing. It seems to be a theme in my life. 🙂 I am going to look through the Contender’s Book and write down some categories that interest the boys. I have found that Project Based Learning seems to be a rather largely supported topic on the internet and  have found Lesson Plans for the Systems of the Body and pdf’s on How to make a Lesson Plan.  With ideas rattling around in my brain, I will continue to check in here and let you know of our progress. 

Have you taught this way before? Are you interested in joining me on the journey? Tips? Advice? Let me know!