Easy as ABC – an “unwritten” research paper
May 9th, 2011 by Cathy Jo Nelson
I’ve been working with a few classes these last ten days or so, showing them some “un-written” research projects. My point to them is to try and turn their research into some really cool projects that are not only fun, but downright inspirational or creative. Many examples shared were techy (Voicethread, videos, Glogster, etc.) But I wanted to have some examples that were also low tech, but none the less creative. In my PLN I had a video shared with me not too long ago that just floored me! It is a young girl (YouTube User MadiElizabeth143) who has written and performed a song about a character from Harper Lee’s classic To Kill a Mockingbird. It arrived in my PLN circles just in time!! How creative is this??
A few days ago I decided to attend our after school AP Art show, and ran across this art piece. I was floored at how much research had to be done to create such a work of art. I asked if I could use this piece as an example in my classes. Our kids are quite impressed with the creativity that went into these two examples. I’m anxiously waiting to see what they come up with! Best, it has been a great discussion on copyright, fair use, creative commons, and most exciting, creative license.
Artwork by Jarrad P., student
Now granted not everyone can play the guitar, write a song, or produce an art piece, but there are students that are much more capable of creating some kind of art work than writing a paper. Try to find a way for students to shine with their capabilities or talents. Then their work will seem as easy as ABC.
THIS is what arts integration means.
