Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: How much time should I expect to spend on the personal project?
A: You are expected to spend approximately 25 hours on your personal project.
Q: What does a completed personal project look like?
A: A personal project will reflect the student’s progression through the four stages of the process: investigation, planning, taking action, and reflection. The student’s investigation and planning will lead to the creation of a product or outcome. Each student will document his or her progress in the process journal on Managebac. Once the product or outcome is completed, the student will report the project in a written paper or in another format, such as a website, blog, or oral presentation. A completed personal project includes all three components: the process journal, a product/outcome, and a presentation at the showcase.
Q: Is it permissible for students to collaborate on a personal project?
A: Students are allowed to work together toward completion of a project (MUST have approval from Herrero, Nielson, or Michel); however, each student must be responsible for a distinct aspect of the project. For example, students could work together to create a short film. Each student would need to be in charge of a different aspect of the process, such as script writing, costume/make-up, lighting/special effects, directing, or editing. Each of these areas of focus would require its own investigation and planning; students’ process journals would be completed independently. On a cautionary note, too often we have seen conflicting student schedules derail a project; therefore, we recommend that you work independently. However, this is merely a recommendation; it is not a requirement.
Q: Do I have to do the personal project?
A: The process writing components make up 10% of your overall grade in 10th grade literature class. Also, students will receive points for presenting and attending the Personal Project Showcase in the Spring. ELA teachers will advice students of the appoint of credit rewarded in class.