Exploring Their Interests at GG

Posted: May 4, 2015

 Genius Hour is a concept where students of all ability levels are encouraged to explore their own passions in a special one-hour-per-week time reserved for this activity.  After identifying a passion or a huge interest, the students then learn how to research, organize and share their knowledge in diverse ways.  At Gretna Green, 2 classes of Grade 4 students took on Genius Hour this winter.  For 3 months, once a week, 25 students pursued vastly different interests with the help of their classroom teachers:  Carolyn Simmons and Linda Dickson. Also helping the students:   Joey Savoy, Tech Mentor and Charlotte Loggie, Enrichment Lead.  Topics ranged from "What is Child Poverty and how can I make a difference?" to "Hockey History" and "Fashion from the Titanic Era".  All topics were individually researched and presented.  A showcase of these projects took place on Tuesday, April 28 at Gretna Green.  The students presented all afternoon to groups of Grade 3 and 5 students from the school who proved to be engaged and receptive audiences.  It was an afternoon of students teaching students, and a great atmosphere of lively learning and exchange.  For a list of all projects, please visit the class blog, found on Mrs. Simmons' Teacher page under Web Links at the Gretna Green Website. To view photos of the presentations visit GG Genius Hour. To see a video visit GG Genius Hour - the video.