Contracts
I have never used a contract (in this context) before, so I decided I would try it! This idea stood out to me because I frequently assign multi-day projects or lessons and am always looking for better ways to hold students accountable.
A contract seemed like a great way to help students stay organized, focused, and motivated.
I decided to make my contract worth a project grade, to show students the importance of each step leading to their final research paper.
The topic for my final exam is "What should the 28th amendment be?" Students could choose from the Electoral College, natural-born president requirement, or citizenship by birth. They have to decide whether to remove or maintain these constitutional requirements. Students are working in teams for their initial research, but are writing an individual paper. They will also participate in a debate on their topic.
I am teaching the research paper process, and this is where my contract comes in.
A contract seemed like a great way to help students stay organized, focused, and motivated.
I decided to make my contract worth a project grade, to show students the importance of each step leading to their final research paper.
The topic for my final exam is "What should the 28th amendment be?" Students could choose from the Electoral College, natural-born president requirement, or citizenship by birth. They have to decide whether to remove or maintain these constitutional requirements. Students are working in teams for their initial research, but are writing an individual paper. They will also participate in a debate on their topic.
I am teaching the research paper process, and this is where my contract comes in.
My plan was to conference with each student individually as they complete each task. The goal was to re-teach where needed, answer questions, and make sure students are on the right track before they go to write their paper.
Reflection
Overall, I would like to use this system again. Students clearly understood what was expected of them and if a student missed a day of class, they could just check their contract.
At times, it was chaotic. I would have many students needing my help at once. I need a better system (more organized way) to conference with each student in my class.
At times, it was chaotic. I would have many students needing my help at once. I need a better system (more organized way) to conference with each student in my class.