STEM
Artefact 1
Artefact 2
Annotation
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When did it take place? This “think-tac-toe” choice board was assigned to students during a science unit on mini beasts during the second term of 2017. It is modelled after the children’s game “tic-tac-toe” (naughts and crosses) and contains a grid of nine cells. Why was this work assigned? It provided students with the opportunity to express their understanding and develop their knowledge using a method of their choice. A blank space was left in the grid to allow students to suggest an activity of their own. Each of the choices required students to explore the key concepts and use the key skills relevant to the area of study. Students who completed their activity could select another one to work on. How did this work help students? The activities encouraged the use of STEM skills such as coding, scientific inquiry and engineering. They provided open-ended challenges that offered students the freedom to learn in a style that they felt was appropriate. What does this evidence show? This evidence is an example of Chatswood Public School’s commitment and dedication to providing differentiated learning that meets the diverse readiness levels and interests of the students.
The Significant Impact
As STEM education begins to proliferate throughout the state, it is important to ensure that it is effectively differentiated. The think-tac-toe proved an effective differentiation strategy as it allowed students to take control of their own learning. The students who completed these activities were able to investigate the area of study at their own pace and produce a response to the explicit quality criteria that was commensurate to their understanding of the content. Each student worked within their zone of proximal development and completed work that was cognitively engaging and that allowed them to develop their skills in STEM and enhance their understanding of minibeasts.
Analysis
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In our self-assessment process the leadership team analysed a range of evidence to support our judgement.
SEF Connections
Learning Element
Curriculum and Learning - Sustaining and Growing
By allowing students to select one of a range of activities, or come up with an activity of their own, to develop skills and demonstrate their understanding of a particular subject area, the Think-Tac-Toe allows students to participate in the planning of their own learning.
Teaching Element
Effective Classroom Practice - Sustaining and Growing
When students are completing tasks that they have selected, the teacher is presented with many opportunities to provide formative and summative feedback that is specific to the learning goals of individual students.
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Learning and Development - Sustaining and Growing
The Think-Tac-Toe strategy was introduced after attendance at a professional development symposium on STEM education. It demonstrates our commitment to improve our teaching through professional learning.
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Please check the link below re: School Excellence Framework