When Choice Leads Learning Grade 5 Rock Cycle Project
In Grade 5 science, students explored the rock cycle not just by studying it, but by demonstrating what they learned through a project that blended scientific knowledge with creative expression. Each student was required to represent all 10 stages of the rock cycle, including the three main types of rock and their variations, while choosing a format that best showcased their thinking. The result was a wide range of projects, from raps and comic books to board games, fashion designs, videos, and even choreographed performances.
“Allowing young scientists to choose the medium of their presentation encourages them to be far more imaginative, expressive, and varied in how they communicate their understanding,” Grade 5 Science Teacher Mr. Andy Dodge said.
By giving students ownership over how they shared their learning, the project deepened both engagement and comprehension.
“The best way for students to learn in a truly meaningful way is to actively enroll them in the process by supporting them in choosing an approach that resonates with them,” Mr. Dodge said. “This is what helps to make it stick, both for the presenter and the audience. Being treated to the complete rock cycle, accurately demonstrated through a well-choreographed solo dance performance, certainly leaves a lasting impression.”
“I like when I get to choose how to do a project becuase it lets me be really creative. My favorite way to show my learning is making movies.”
- Lily Wolfe, Grade 5 Student
“Everybody learns in their own way. When you get to choose how to do something, you can pick what works best for you, which makes it more memorable.”
- Keene Storey, Grade 5 Student
Different Ways Students Chose to Show their Learning:
Different Ways Students Chose to Show their Learning:
Books, comics, and stories
Videos and multimedia projects
Dioramas and 3D models
Songs, raps, and dances
board Games and interactive experiences
A custom pack of sports cards
Art, fashion, and design
Graland Country Day School
Graland Country Day School is a private school in Denver, Colorado, serving students in preschool, kindergarten, elementary, and middle school. Founded in Denver in 1927, Graland incorporates a rich, experiential learning approach in a traditional classroom setting, emphasizing the development of globally and socially conscious leaders who excel academically.
