Diverse and Self-Directed Learners

Using a checklist is a great tool to keep kids on track, and working in groups allows students to do jobs in their groups that fit their strengths and learning styles. By having open ended topics and responses we can differentiate for students.

Assessing student learning

Checklists are a great tool for middle schoolers. They can work as a group to divide the many tasks associated with a project, and make sure everyone stays busy doing something all the time. Checkslists are also a good tool for communicating to the students exactly what is expected of their group, and what I will be looking for when I grade them. I like to have students initial the checklist to show what task they have worked on or done independently for their group. This is a form of check and balances for group members to see their own contributions as well as ensuring that each member has made some contribution toward the completion and success of the project.