What are some ways teachers inspire students in the classroom? One of our new teachers, Ms. Janet Norman, created a research project for her 5th grade students to complete in class. Students demonstrated knowledge about a particular animal by creating an original handwritten piece. They were to include various pieces of information about the animal and visually represent the animal using a medium of their choice (drawing, painting, watercolor, etc).
I was so impressed by the students' creativity and passion. I love when students have opportunities in the classroom to show their learning through handwritten and hand-drawn pieces. There's so much research that points to how effective these types of projects can be for learning to "stick" in students' minds.
Ms. Norman is a seasoned teacher with over 25 years of instructional experience. She desired to immerse her instruction in biblical truth and transitioned to NCA this school year. It's been a sweet transition for her, and she's demonstrated a dual commitment to discipleship and student learning. "I love when the light bulb turns on in a student's mind. I love seeing neurons firing. And any opportunity I have to tap into their passions is a win." I asked Janet what inspires her to reach for above & beyond in the classroom, and she pointed to the kids.
"My students inspire me. I love seeing them engaged in the learning process. It's so exciting to me to awaken their talents and abilities."
Ms. Norman set forth the project for her students and directed her research to a specific website through the University of Michigan. "They got to choose their animal, and we had a wide variety of projects and types of mediums used."
I hope you enjoy looking through a few of these animal projects as much as I did!
Students getting involved
