Fourth graders explore new topics during Genius Hour

Fourth graders in teacher Shane Marsan’s class worked on their Genius Hour project proposals, the first step of their six-week inquiry-based, student-directed learning. Students explained their idea, why it should be researched, the potential challenges, and what tools they might need to succeed. Once their proposal is approved by Marsan, students spend an hour during class every week learning about their topic and preparing a presentation for their classmates. Student proposals included creating a podcast about Robolox, making step-by-step instructions for drawing angels, and figuring out how to create a podcast.