On Wednesday afternoons in my classroom, the excitement and buzz is similar to that of when it is announced there will be outdoor recess on a wintery day. Students begin to buzz as we walk back from recess headed to Genius Hour time. My students are genuinely thrilled when we begin Genius Hour each Wednesday. When I decided to become a teacher, I knew that this is how I wanted my students to feel. My goal was to help my students find a passion towards learning so that they could become lifelong learners as well. As I began my year teaching fifth grade, I knew this would be a difficult task, but I was determined to help my students become passionate learners.
Genius Hour is adapted from Google's 20% time. It offers students a regular time each week to work on a "passion project" of their choice. It is an open inquiry experience that allows students to decide and guide their own learning. Genius Hour is an authentic way for students to prepare for 21st century careers integrating research, problem solving, creativity, choice, and so much more!
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