Problem-Based Model

I chose these questions from the book, since they are topics we already use in our 6th grade curriculum.

Consider the Japanese internment camps during WWII. When, if ever, should the Bill of Rights be violated? This is a question we talk about quite in depth when learning about WWII. But then we relate it to 9/11. We will have already learned about the Holocaust, as well as the ten internment camps in seven states. So, I will present the problem by showing a video of the bill signed by FDR, then we will develop a plan for what could be done if we have an act of terrorism or war again. I will put the students in groups of four to figure out how they would take care of the problem, and decide if it is a violation of the Bill of Rights, and if so, if it is justified. We will discuss their ideas and then they will implement them. After they are finished we will evaluate each others' ideas to see if they are appropriate, and give ideas of what they like, and what could have been done differently.

How does the size of an object affect its pitch? The text book has this as a music question, but I would use it in science. We already would have learned about waves, sound, and how the tightness of a string affects pitch before starting this. They would develop a plan with small groups to show how the size of the instrument makes a difference. We will have a Q and A period first then I will tell the students to come up with a plan. After they have all made a plan, they will clear it with me to help them clarify any bogus info. The next day they will bring their supplies and make an instrument. After they have made them, we will discuss any problems they have encountered and what they can do to fix it. When they are done they will make a Scratch video showing how the size affects the pitch.

What materials provide the most structural support for an egg dropped off the roof of the school?This is a project we do every year. But I can see how this one can be changed to fit the problem-based model. First, I would propose the question to the class. They can work in pairs or alone. They will watch a video online and then develop a plan. They may NOT copy any idea they find online. We will talk about what each person/group designed and discuss whether or not it might work. They must make it original (find one they like and change it up). They will build them at home and bring them to school on the specified due date. We will then drop them from the roof and give prizes for winners.