Introduction to Independent Study |
 |
 |
Independent Study-What is it?
We are on a challenging journey through the last semester of the QUEST curriculum. One that all students concur is the most thrilling and the most trying. The project is titled, “Independent Research Study” where students study a problem or issue in depth, take notes, analyze data, evaluate or state a solution to the problem, create visual aides, produce a synthesized product, and present using a creative format. Wow! Sounds as challenging as working with gifted children! For grades one and two, students are guided with the assistance of their peers, teacher, and parents. Students in grades 3-5 research a topic of their own choice.
What are the student’s responsibilities?
All students differ in their abilities within and among grade levels therefore it is difficult to set the same level of responsibilities for every grade level. Therefore, parental assistance is imperative. Generally speaking, students in the lower grades 1-3 will be responsible for bringing their research guide, note taking papers or cards, and library books home daily. Parents can assist them by reading to them or listening to the student read, and taking dictation on the note sheets. Fourth and fifth grade students are encouraged to apply their skills in time management, note taking, reading, organizing, and creating visual aides and a synthesized product. A general rule of thumb for students who have successfully completed a QUEST independent study is to move up one more step on the responsibility ladder than was taken last year. For example, if your student needed assistance in finding and printing images from the internet, then ask your student to recall how you did it and guide them through the process. The same is true about reading, note taking, organizing, and time management. Move your student toward independence one step at a time.
What are parent and teacher responsibilities?
Parents are a valuable resource and students learn that by being responsible and respectful, this QUEST project may well result in an unforgettable experience yielding real life skills to be used in their school careers and in life. Being a guide on the side using the student research guide mentioned above, parents and teachers instruct students throughout the research process. By following a timeline to be sent home with the research guide, we will follow each step as directed. A sheet for communication will also be included in the notebook to answer any questions we might have regarding the student’s study. Note taking and the creation of visual aides takes place both at school and at home. Synthesizing a 3-D product is the only activity that takes place solely at home due to material availability. This means that a trip to Home Depot or the craft store may be necessary to purchase specific items to be used for the visual aides or product. Finally, parents review the independent study contract found near the end of the student guide, sign, and return it to school as soon as the student has determined the topic.
What is the project criterion?
Project criteria are stated throughout each step in the process and in the form of a student checklist included in the guide sent home in February.
More questions?
Visit our QUEST Parent website at
classroom.leanderisd.org/webs/quest1/independent_study_faqs.htm
|
|
