As part of the Lower School theme of community, second graders were challenged to build an „Ultimate Tour of St. Louis“ for their St. Louis Landmarks Project-Based Learning Presentations (say that five times fast!). Students were divided into groups of four and had to agree on a landmark, research it, and develop an informative, creative, and entertaining way to showcase their landmark. The presentation had to be both educational and entice individuals to visit it.
When the presentations were complete, students were surprised with a field trip (on a trolley bus!) to visit all the landmarks they studied, which included the Zoo, the Arch, Ted Drewes, Fitz’s, Busch Stadium, Science Center, Enterprise Center, Magic House, and Grant’s Farm.
The day after the field trip, students had the opportunity to present their projects to second-grade parents outside in the Middle School courtyard. Guests were able to ask questions, learn more about each landmark, and see photos of their field trip.
Project-based learning is a teaching method that allows students to gain knowledge and skills by working for an extended period of time to investigate and respond to a topic. “It’s an innovative way to expose students to 21st-century skills such as collaboration, communication, delegating, critical thinking, and compromise,” shared Second Grade Homeroom Teacher Kristen Witzman.
Congratulations to our second graders on completing this investigative and long-term fun project!