PSI Parent Brochure

For more information about the Plymouth School of Inquiry, please contact: Mr. Daniel Tyree email:dtyree@plymouth.k12.in.us

(574) 936.3115

Mr. James Condon email:jcondon@plymouth.k12.in.us

(574) 936.2178

Mr. Kenneth Olson email:kolson@plymouth.k12.in.us

(574) 936.2178

Mrs. Jennifer Felke email: jfelke@plymouth.k12.in.us

(574) 936.2178

Parent Resources for New Tech & Project Based Learning •newtechnetwork.org •echo.newtechnetwork.org - course management •google apps - collaborative platform for student work •p21.org - partnership for 21st century skills •doe.in.gov - Indiana Dept. of Education •bie.org - Buck Institute - Project Based Learning •edutopia.com - PBL resource •commonsensemedia.org - digital citizenship

Parent information and tips for supporting your child and helping them thrive in a Project-Based Learning environment.

How can you support your student?

Ask them what they are doing in school.

Volunteer as a community member for a presentation or project.

Remind them that good digital citizenship extends beyond the school’s walls and their school computer.

Encourage them to be life long learners

Plymouth High School

How will the School of Inquiry differ from a traditional high school?

The most important difference is that all New Tech high schools use the instructional approach called Project Based Learning.

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Questions about New Tech

How does Project Based Learning work?

How many New Tech schools are there?

As of August 2011, New Tech has expanded it’s network to 85 New Tech high schools around the country. Indiana is the national leader for New Tech implementation.

How do students keep track of all their work and assignments?

With the Project Based Learning approach, students learn by solving problems and making decisions, rather than just memorizing facts. The projects in Project Based Learning are based on real-world situations — and some are drawn from situations in the local community. As students progress through their projects, they are taught all the academic content and skills appropriate to their grade level, and then immediately apply what they have learned to the challenges of their project.

All New Tech teachers and students use an online system called ECHO. Teachers use ECHO to post student grades and all requirements of projects. Students access ECHO each class period to see information teachers have posted that day as well as new digital resources to help them progress on their projects. Students also use ECHO to discuss work with other class members or to e-mail the teacher. All students receive an e-mail account to use within their classes.

How are the projects approached?

It depends what you mean by “work.” Students are more motivated to attend a New Tech high school, so attendance improves. Most New Tech schools report few or no dropouts. State test scores increase and New Tech students master skills that will make them successful in college or careers. Students learn 21st Century Learning Skills such as communication, collaboration,critical thinking, professionalism, digital literacy, work ethic, content knowledge and analyzing sources of information.

As students get ready to start a new unit in a classroom, teachers lead a discussion about what students already know about the project associated with the unit. Once these areas are identified, the teacher can concentrate on the skills and knowledge students don’t know and plan the discussions and workshops around those missing parts.

How are the projects organized?

Students work in groups to complete their projects in different subject areas. At any given time students might be working on multiple projects. Students must develop and practice timemanagement skills to complete everything they have to do. At the end of each project, student groups present their projects to the class and to outside experts, who may include business leaders from the community or other teachers at the school. While students work in groups, they receive individual grades.

How do students use technology in their classes?

New Tech students and teachers use technology to enhance collaboration and communication, just as in the business world.

Teachers publish their daily agendas and resources for all students, teachers and parents to access. Students use technology to manage their time and tasks and do everything from research to writing on the computer.

How does a New Tech school work?

Where can I learn more?

In addition to the Plymouth High School website, the national New Tech Network has additional videos and information at www.newtechnetwork.org.

Help us celebrate our events and successes by following us via these digital media platforms:

Web: School of Inquiry on PCSC site Twitter: follow schlofinquiry

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