What Is A Hero?
Project Based Learning is an important piece of the differentiated learning structure at Legacy School. Each teacher is required to complete at least one PBL through the course of the year because we feel they help students develop valuable skills they do not receive from textbooks alone. They provide real-world experiences, a deeper learning of the subject manner, and practice using their critical thinking skills.
This year, in addition to individual PBLs, the school came together to complete one in unison. Things kicked of at our first staff in-service when the team brainstormed innovative ways to illustrate the theme “What is a hero?” within all the grade levels, from preschool through elementary.
From reading lessons, to social studies, to even music, this theme was incorporated into the lesson plans. Some classrooms even selected their field trip locations to based on the theme, such as Omaha-area Fire Departments. Below are additional examples of what was happening in the classrooms as we ramped up to the final presentations.
FOURTH GRADE
Mrs. Wymer’s classroom focused on the traits that make up all heroes no matter how big or small instead of specific people defined as heroes.
They explored character traits in fictional stories to better understand character’s actions and how they are representative of different character traits. Students were then presented with the thought, “A hero is someone who is _____.” They had to decide what trait all characters show. Next, they researched various examples of heroism and heroes, whether they’re famous, everyday – or even animals – to see how various heroes exhibit their chosen character traits. Some traits they picked were: resilient, optimistic, honest, willing, and empathetic just to name a few!
MUSIC
Mrs. Peterson had the Early Childhood kiddos sing songs with hero themes with moments of freezing like Super Heros, while older students made Hero Rhythms. They made a list of Hero Characteristics that have one and two syllables and made four-beat rhythmic patterns using eighth and quarter notes. Last, our fifth graders analyzed the lyrics of three Hero Songs and voted on a class song to create something special for the final project.
KINDERGARTEN
Mrs. Behrens and Mrs. McKenzie’s classrooms brainstormed jobs that can have attributes of being a hero. Then, parents of their kiddos visited their classrooms to discuss their jobs and how they help our community. A big Legacy Roar goes out to these parents fo their time in making these lessons so much more personal.
Our One Project, One School initiative ended with group presentations in November. Parents were invited to come learn “What is a hero” for themselves. We are so proud of kiddos and all their hard work.
About Legacy School
Legacy School offers a nonsectarian, private school setting for parents looking for high academic standards, small class sizes, and exceptional teaching in Omaha, NE. Students experience the highest quality of learning through literacy-based instruction, thus giving them best opportunities to exceed curriculum standards. Experience an inviting, safe, student-centered environment that caters to the individual educational needs of each student.
The school sits on 11 acres of land, allowing for expressive, outdoor educational experiences for all students. Our outdoor learning and playing space allows for real world experiences that cannot be found anywhere else. Also on the land is a barnyard that holds both chickens and goats and a farm-to-table garden.
Come feel the Legacy Love!