What are they?

Extension Projects are assignments that extend and add to the regular class curriculum. In reality they are TAG Projects.

Why have them?

Extension Projects allow students to pursue specific areas of interest - Literature, Science, Writing - beyond the regular class assignments.

Who should do them?

Any interested student, TAG students, or a student looking for a fun challenge. 

How are Extension Projects different from regular assignments?

Extension Projects require the student to work independently during and outside of school hours.

When will Extension Projects be offered?

Extension Projects can be initiated ANYTIME (by parents, students or myself), but fit especially well during our open ended projects. Often I will approach a student and encourage him/her to go above and beyond the norm.

Examples of possible Extension Projects:

Oral Report

Public speaking can be one of the toughest things for young students.  This Extension Project offers students a high challenge and positive experience.

Photo Essay

Students can use a digital camera or a plain disposable film camera to create a unique photo essay. This needs to be a student initiated project centered around a student’s interests. This is more than taking pictures and sharing but creating a layout and adding a written narrative.

Art based Book Reports

These are very cool book reports that require equal parts careful writing and coloring (pencil, crayon, pastels, watercolor, etc.) There are many different templates of foldable book reports.

Young Writer’s Association Writing Contest

The YWA has a yearly contest after Winter Break.

Independent Reading Contracts

Students, parents, or teacher selects the book and the student completes advanced literature work.

Open Ended Projects

Anytime we are studying a big topic in class there are numerous opportunities for students to initiate projects that pique their interest and develop their skills.

“Ask the Expert” (ATE) Project

The student will self-select an area of interest, event in history, or person of prominence that he/she will study and research.  The student will be the Expert on the subject by years end.  For example, a student can study trains, compile a report, make models and then present the information to the class. The student will research, write, speak, complete art work about their subject. 

Challenge Packets/work - I’ll periodically provide challenge work or packets to students and count this as extra credit.