The Days of Reflection
Day 16 – Introduction Circus
I mentioned in a previous post that I had a really successful lesson with a group of students. We had recently finished Chemistry and moving onto Physics. The first topic is Electricity and Magnetism. Whilst they are exciting topics, there are many difficult concepts. I’m addition, not all students have the same starting point.
I designed and introductory lesson which allowed students to display (or not) skills or knowledge relating to Electricity and Magnetism.
1. On the table I left leads, clips, bulbs, motors and buzzers with power packs and diagrams of simple circuits. I challenged the students to make the circuits with the equipment provided.
2. A full glossary of the topic with reference books. Students were required to research keyword definitions
3. A model diagram with a variety of objects and containers for students to design a model for electricity.
4. Magnets, paper clips and cotton with the challenge of levitating a paper clip.
5. A diagram and equipment to wire a plug.
The group was split into 6 groups (with all groups having the opportunity to stay at the first activity for double time).
Breif instructions were left on each table. At the start of the activity I asked the students to read the instructions and attempt the tasks. I told them I was expecting them to be new to much of the equipment and also to make mistakes. Mistakes are allowed as long as you are trying to figure out the activity.
They were then allowed to complete the activities. I gave instructions for moving on at timed intervals and I moved around the room offering extra guidance where necessary.
The students were outstanding. They knew each activity was times so worked hard to make sure they could complete the work. I was dubious about the research and glossary task bit by the end of the lesson each student knew what an index was…result!
The following lesson, I found the group to be more engaged with their learning from the start. The lesson had not only inspired them on one Day, but had a greater impact on their learning attitude. Despite there being more effort involved in planning student led activities I definitely feel that I will create more lessons like this in the future. I’m so proud of them.
Have you used any student led activities to bring success to your classroom recently? Let me know in the comments
Thank you for reading.