Compose Our World: Project-Based Learning in Secondary English Language Arts

by Alison G. Boardman, Antero García, Bridget Dalton

Learn how to develop and sustain multimodal, project-based learning (PBL) instruction in secondary English Language Arts classrooms. National standards encourage authentic forms of reading, writing, and communication that can support college and career readiness, and this book highlights PBL as a powerful way to harness students' interests and engage them in academically rigorous learning. The authors provide specific, research-informed curricular approaches and instructional guidance for classroom teachers, as well as an overview of the dimensions of PBL that are often overlooked in the broad expectations of inquiry-based teaching. Instead of "quick fix" lessons, Compose Our World explores how core dimensions of equitable teaching--such as social and emotional support, universal design for learning, and cultivating classroom community--function as the bedrock for student success in PBL contexts and beyond.

Book Features:

Based on the authors' extensive experience developing and studying a PBL curriculum. Brings PBL to life through classroom vignettes and teacher and student voices. Provides classroom resources that facilitate customization to unique contexts. Shares ideas for developing teacher communities around PBL practices. Offers additional curriculum materials online. Appropriate for ELA teachers new to PBL, as well as veterans.

224 pages, Hardcover

Published January 8, 2021

Reviews

[Philip Costea · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book has some real pedagogy shaking ideas, some of it is also dim in its execution and understanding of the state of education. Honestly, the "Conclusion" chapter was probably the best in it's assessment that real, authentic learning in the PBL classroom is more difficult to attain in reality, but theoretically, and in small lessons here or there, it would probably fit perfectly. The vague definition that these authors use for 21st century skills is trying its hardest - and there's some good ideas and some fluff - but that eludes every educator because of how fast the world is changing. Some of these lessons, I just couldn't use in my classroom. Factors from ELO's to state standards, to department ones, to individual education plans per student make for far more nuance than this book can account for. However, I'd like to use some ideas from it nonetheless.