Reading, Viewing, Listening Inquiry
At the beginning of each class after completing grammar, you will be given 20 minutes to read, view, or listen to texts that will support a semester-long inquiry. You may choose any topic (appropriate for school and approved by your parent/guardian) to inquire about. For example, if you choose to read a science-fiction book, you can follow that with a podcast interview with the author as you inquire about how to write a science fiction text. Or, if you want to learn about the mechanics of cars, you could listen to podcasts, watch documentaries, and read instruction manuals. A few weeks prior to the end of the semester, you will turn in a project that demonstrates all you have learned through this inquiry. Take advantage of the freedom you have in this inquiry, but make sure to meet the minimum requirements below.
HONORS: Each semester, your first text MUST be chosen from the list below. Please make sure your guardian approves of your text choices.
Earn a minimum of 300 points from the following:
- Print/Digital Books: 25 pages=25 points
- Audio/Visual texts (audiobooks, documentaries, podcasts): 60 minutes=25 points
- Online articles (must be reputable source): 5,000 words=25 points
- Word Counter
- Scholarly Journals (peer reviewed): 10 pages=15 points
- Any other sources must be approved by Ms. Steenhard BEFORE RVL
During RVL time, students must:
· work independently, not distracting peers
· stay on task
· work silently
· complete a daily log of what you Read, Viewed, or Listened to
Demonstration of Learning (final project--200 points)
You may choose any format to demonstrate what you have learned through this inquiry (perhaps a documentary, a podcast, or a website).
Whatever you decide upon must:
- demonstrate significant time and effort put forth by the student
- share substantial information about the inquiry topic
- offer insights or revelations (new knowledge)
- provide aptly chosen key terms necessary for understanding the topic
- provide a list of resources (in MLA works cited format)
- explain the usefulness/application of the information in a real world context
- be presented to an audience (you may present to the class or video record yourself presenting to a relevant audience)