Student's were easily able to identify those who had had success and who had chosen an interesting topic. Student's that had wasted their time communicated that they would like to do 'Genius Hour' again because now they have seen a successful end result.
The whole topic was facilitated through reflection sheets, conferencing and planning sheets. I can see the areas that need improvement if I was to attempt to do this again.
It was a great way to start the year to see what they were passionate about, I was able to see their inquiry skills and where we need to go next. I was able to see who could work independently and manage their time. I was also able to see who works well in a group and who works better on their own. Although the final projects were not all amazing the process the students took was very successful. Most students identified 'Genius Hour' as their favourite subject and were always asking for it as a reward for finishing their work early.
Genius Hour Projects:
Bradley & Ash - Research about characters in 'Assassins Creed IV'
Tanner, Kyle, Michael, Bryce & Hunter - Create a working theme park in Minecraft
Ronan & Cameron - Design & create an electric rubber (initially - create a storage compartment for a jeep)
Casey & Marnie - Invent two new chocolate flavours
Maya - Design a Harry Potter app
Rawinia - Deisgn and create a jewellry box
Senna & Cassidy - Create a blog about harp seals
Tegan - Create a fitness board game
Devon - Create a blog about caring for rabbits
Daniel & Thomas - Reupholster classroom chairs/redesign classroom furniture
Anthony, Cole & Matthew - Create working fast food restaurants on Minecraft
Shaurye - Showing the class how to create a book on Toondoo
Tanner, Sacha, Alexa & Estelle - Creating a P.E. game based on the Hunger Games, designing costumes for the arrival and a reaping ceremony.
If I was to do Genius Hour again I would have a stricter focus and facilitate certain students more, e.g. - you need to fill a need by creating a product, or you need to design a prototype, test it, reflect and then present a final product.
P3 have been discussing the idea of Genius Hour being all to do with our class YouTube channel. They want to make episodes and videos that are educational and entertaining (e.g. Kid President) on things they are passionate about.
Depending on the time table for next term will determine whether or not this is a feasible activity.
