Case+Study+-+US+History+Midterm

= US History MidTerm with Ms Polocinski =

This project involved Ridgewood US history teacher, Ms Plocinski, creating a midterm assessment different from the usual silent seated, written exam. She allowed students to choose a current event or popular issue from the news, which they then had to research. The students had to look at how their topic had changed during the 21st century.
 * Relevant**
 * “There is not like a history book yet on what we are living in so it is cool that we are writing our own history book. Learning about what we are living in.” [Student]

They then had to apply their new knowledge to an art project, such as creating a short video, writing a song or drawing a poster. This piece of work was to be presented to the rest of the class. Ms Plocinski created this midterm as it allowed the students to have complete creative freedom to learn and develop knowledge which was not only relevant to US history, but to the individual student as well.
 * Autonomy**
 * “ I actually learnt so much through this project on a topic that I was interested in and also I learnt about other topics and discussions because we got to present to the class.” [Student]

This class was of particular interest to our research as it was a great example of variation in the examination system.
 * Variation in the examination system**
 * “You were more into doing it than a midterm that is boring” [Student]

Also, the Midterm relied on the students’ personal input and interests being recognized. This links well with the issue of input and say in learning, which our research illustrates that future students should have more freedom within their curriculum, working closely with their teachers to make the most out of a subject. Also, the program emphasizes the skills needed in the future as by giving the students more responsibility they are challenged to used their initiative, making the most out of the resources they have.
 * Flexibility**
 * “I also think it allows you to be yourself a little bit more. With tests it is a little straight forward and black and white and some people are not good test takers. This allows you to be your own person.” [Student]

Skills students may need to prepare them for the future not only include academic ones but also good communication skills, work-related skills, responsibility, social skills, teamwork and confidence. Through taking part in this US history class, the Ridgewood High students explore each of these areas, developing their knowledge on subjects which interest them. They communicate this knowledge through their art and presentation along with working together developing their teamwork abilities and overall gaining confidence in, not only an area of US history, but also their confidence with their classmates.
 * Skills development**
 * “I’ve learnt how to work with others as part of a team…it has brought us together. It really brings the best out of your qualities and you know that’s a key.” [Student]

For more information on how this midterm links to our research please click. [|Table_2[1 US history midterm.docx]]

We all feel that Ms Plocinski’s lesson was very interesting to learn about and we are all extremely grateful for the entire class’s help and input into our understanding of their midterm project.

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