Generating+&+Testing+Hypotheses

**Read and Reflect**

 * How do you currently apply this strategy, with or without the use of technology?**

Over the last 2 years, I have moved to a very project based approach to all my classes. Instead of the traditional end of the unit test, I have worked hard to develop projects so that students can put what they learned into real practice. Some of my favorite projects really let students test their skills and the knowledge they have aquired. In Marketing, we do a unit on Merchandizing (setting up displays for better project sales). Before we even began the unit, I split the class into 3 teams and gave them each a project to set up a display for. They had 20 minutes and they could only use the supplies given to their group. It was amazing to watch them question what they were doing and why. I then had them rotate through the other displays and make Plus/Delta Comments (what worked well, what could be better). By doing this project first, it really seemed to help get them open to the material in the unit. At the end, each student had to create a personal display and reflect on what they did and why. I had so much fun with this unit and I cannot wait to do it again.

**What new insights or ideas did you gain from the reading?**
I did not gain a lot new, except it reminded me that I need to make sure to do it more, especially since I knew how well it works for both me and my students.

**How might you use this tool in your classroom?**
 I could use this tool to replace Excel in my classroom. My students come with very limited computer skills and therefore, when I want them to create graphs for any kind of information, I have to make sure and teach how to graph before hand. Excel is a hard program for many of them to master and this might make it possible for more students to grasp the concept of graphing. I have a hard time understanding why my students have such trouble with graphing. As Juniors and Seniors, I feel like it should be a skill they already have, even though it is hard concept for them. If I use this maybe I will have more success.