Creating+Authentic+Tasks

Problem-based learning (PBL) is a student-centered pedagogy that uses real world problems to provide in-depth investigation of core content. PBL develops critical thinking, problem solving skills, supports collaboration while enhancing student interest, engagement, active participation and culminates in realistic, student-generated products. PBL allow students to research and apply existing knowledge to construct and develop authentic products based on real world issues. Authentic tasks are not meant to replace classroom activities but to serve as a bridge between what is learned in the classroom and why this learning experience is important to life in the real world.
 * What is PBL? **

Authentic tasks are real world activities, connected to the lives of students and real community issues. According to the Buck Institute, there are five design principles that should be considered when designing project based learning resources. Examine the following document to determine if it meets the five principles for designing authentic tasks. If it is determined that it does not meet the design principle for a category what changes would you make to align it with the design step in question? //The PBL design based on The Project Based Learning Handbook, published by the Buck Institute for Education. You may browse Handbook at @http://www.bie.org/index.php/site/PBL/pbl_handbook_introduction/.//
 * Designing Authentic Tasks **

Completing the Task ** Essential Question: ** What makes me the way I am? ** Unit Question: ** How are characteristics passed from parents to offspring?

What do I want my students to know and be able to do: understand DNA

decide on a case of invitro fertilization (what should happen to the two babies - [ethical] who should keep them? [science] what kinds of characteristics will the children have in terms of health issues because of their DNA; [nature vs. nurture] black vs. white birth mother should keep, go back to the intended donor - original father; mother who gave birth; (visitation rights, whose baby is it) what happened prior to becoming pregnant (fertilization) she has both babies at home (emotional attachment) how could this have happened? in vitro procedures in general and potential problems (importance of cleanliness and sterilization)
 * which baby is which person's

** Content Question: ** What is DNA? **Content Question:** Evaluate some of the ethical issues surrounding the use of DNA technology (including cloning, genetically modified organisms, stem cell research, and Human Genome Project).

Working in groups, download the appropriate document and work through the design principles to complete the problem. Use the KWL Chart to record information.

Whose Baby Is It #1? Whose Baby is It #2


 * Example Project Ideas **
 * Students select location, design and select equipment for a new play area to be placed on the school grounds.
 * Students plan and execute an environmental clean-up effort in the community
 * Students write guides and produce advertising media to share with visitors new to the city
 * Students consult with local businesses to create an advertising campaign to increase sales to teens
 * Students develop a new treatment for eczema using plant derived active ingredients
 * Students design and create a math game to provide remediation to elementary students.

What does it make to make a project authentic? PBL Online Authentic Learning for the 21st Century Edutopia Buck Institute for Education (BIE) Boise State Standards Based Project Based Learning PBL Library PBL Academy After School Projects INTEL PBL Gaming with BYOB PBL Template
 * Resources **