Introduction Here is your chance to see Investigative Learning (IL) in action. Each month we'll be posting a new episode chronicling our journey. To watch an episode, simply click the appropriate format link for Mac (QuickTime format) or Windows (Windows Media Player -- WMV). |
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The Creek Project This mini-documentary focuses on how a meandering creek flowing nearby Ormondale becomes the foundation for teaching the basic language arts curriculum and core literature, and then integrating science, math, geography, history, community exploration, technology, all in a beautiful natural setting. The Creek is based on student interest and the desire to learn and to explore. QuickTime format (Running Time: 30 minutes, File Size: 56.6MB) |
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From Egg To Chicken Follow our students as they investigate chick development from egg to hatchling. A journey that brings together basic language arts curriculum and core literature, science, math, geography, history, community exploration, and technology. QuickTime format (Running Time: 31 minutes, File Size: 60.8MB) |
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June 2007: IL 2006/2007 Retrospective Outgoing Principal Eva Gal reflects on where we started and how far we have come; incoming Principal Jennifer Warren looks forward. We take a summary look at many of this year's IL projects in action: the Creek (3rd grade), the Chocolate Project (2nd grade), Chicks (1st grade), Pirates (K), Straw-Bale Houses (multi-grade), and Theatrical Production (Service Learning). QuickTime format (Running Time: 20 minutes, File Size: 35.6MB) |
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Investigative Learning through Chocolate A mini-documentary focusing on "our hybrid model of teaching and learning, that starts from the basic language arts curriculum and core literature, and then integrates science, math, geography, history, community exploration, technology, all of which is based on student interest and desire to learn and to explore." Movies currently being edited -- please check back at a later time. |
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May 2007: Learning through a Theatrical Production The Goodin/Grech second grade class puts on a full-blown production of Hansel and Gretel. They help script, audition for roles, design costumes, sets and props, rehearse, perform, reflect -- and find new confidence reading, performing, and working together. QuickTime format (Running Time: 11 minutes, File Size: 42.7MB) |
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April 2007: Technology and Learning Dr. Keating, Educational Technology Coordinator, reflects on how to put the technological tools in place that not only support teaching standards, but also foster innovation and creativity in the classroom. Ms. Driscoll (2nd Grade) demonstrates a science lesson on measuring sound waves that profits from an online oscilliscope. QuickTime format (Running Time: 5 minutes, File Size: 27.7MB) |
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March 2007: Literature and Learning Studying Fantastic Mr. Fox by Roald Dahl opens up opportunities for playwriting and performance, story problems, a feast, and much more. Ms. Bertolina reflects on how Investigative Learning has changed her teaching style. QuickTime format (Running Time: 5 minutes, File Size: 27.4MB) |
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February 2007: Imagine Opening a time capsule from the class of 1968 gives rise to investigation of time, place, culture, and our dreams for the future (and presentations of poetry and song) for Ms. Vlasic's third grade class. QuickTime format (Running Time: 6 minutes, File Size: 32.1MB) |
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January 2007: Outhouses, Greenhouses & Cabins Observe several Ormondale teachers and their students, in collaboration with a Portola Valley Structural Engineer; bring to life an astounding array of buildings -- all from mud and straw. QuickTime format (Running Time: 4 minutes, File Size: 19.1MB) |
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December 2006: Dynamic December This episode captures the status of Investigative Learning after three months through interviews with the Mayor of Portola Valley, Eva Gal and a special guest appearance by the Governor of Arkansas. QuickTime format (Running Time: 5 minutes, File Size: 14.7MB) |
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November 2006: Sound & Water Watch teachers create and kids participate in Investigative Learning projects featuring sound & hearing, water surface tension, and local watersheds. QuickTime format (Running Time: 9 minutes, File Size: 63MB) |
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October 2006: Plants, Pirates and Buddies Take a look at several IL Projects featuring teachers and kids describing this exciting way of learning. Superintendent Anne Campbell shares her thoughts on Investigative Learning. QuickTime format (Running Time: 6 minutes, File Size: 32.6MB) |
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Sept. 2006: What is Investigative Learning? This episode captures the excitement of the beginning of a new school year. Principal Eva Gal articulates the shared vision of "Investigative Learning" at Ormondale. QuickTime format (Running Time: 4 minutes, File Size: 8.9MB) |