Elements of a Learning Expedition

  • Focused and Narrowed Topic in a Context
  • Guiding Question
  • Immersion, Kick-off, or Hook
  • Learning Targets
    • The “Big Ideas” of the discipline(s)
    • Content, skills, character
    • Local, state, and district standards
    • Strong emphasis on teaching reading and writing
  • Learning experiences planned like the over-all expedition
    • Projects with products that show understanding
  • Real audiences
  • Craftsmanship (multiple drafts and critique)
  • Tasks that meet portfolio requirements
    • Ongoing literacy experiences
    • Significant instructional events (labs, simulations, role-plays)
  • Evidence that students have met standards
  • Seamless integration of technology
  • Authentic assessment
  • Service
  • Authentic Research
    • Fieldwork
    • Primary sources, experts, and data
  • Culminating Event or Exhibition
  • Reflection and Debriefing Time
  • Physical Adventure, when possible