Module 3 Prompt

What possibilities do you see with the maker movement in your own practice? Additionally, what challenges might you most expect?

I tried something a few years ago called Genius Hour which allowed students the choice to research and explore something they chose. Overall, it went well, but I think if I retried it with more with the maker movement approach, it could be even more successful.

In addition, in relation to the units we study in English 9, I have the following ideas or possibilities:

• In our argument unit with a focus on ethos, logos, and pathos, students will create an object to sell and use persuasive techniques to do so.
• In our short story unit, students will create an object or symbol from one of the pieces of literature.
• In our narrative writing unit, students will transform their writing into a different form of media.
• In my Young Adult Literature course (students have choice reading), students will create a book project in a format of their choosing to entice people to read that book.
• In our Romeo and Juliet unit, students could create props and/or a set to act the play out.

As far as challenges go, I expect some students to be overwhelmed by the freedom and choice. Now more than ever, students need extreme guidance on assignments. At first, I think students will struggle with the amount of possibilities that are available through this type of assignment. With that in mind, I would definitely provide samples, examples, demonstrations, and any other visuals I can to help them come up with ideas.

In addition, some students might feel like they do not have the creative touch. I tend to hoard so many things in my classroom because I always have a vision for something; this is not the case with every student. Doing some curiosity and creativity-building exercises might help get their creative thoughts fired up.