Practical Guide #3 Making a Start on Projects: Planning in Context

This practical guide provides information about selecting a topic, developing a web of related vocabulary, and using the pre-planning period to set up some of the key events in a successful project.

A list of criteria for the selection of a topic is provided. Topics must be chosen from the real world around the children and various aspects of the topic must be amenable to first hand investigation. Distinctions between a topic and a theme are discussed.

Strategies are offered for the design of teacher planning webs. These consist of a large collection of vocabulary focussed on the topic of study which helps the teacher to consider the potential scope of the project in advance. There is also some value for teachers of older students in designing a curriculum web as an additional resource in planning to infuse the project work with relevant curriculum standards.

Key events can be planned to give the project momentum and to ensure that the students’ interest in the topic is sustained throughout the study. Examples are given in this guide in relation to all three phases of a project.

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