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Project-Based Learning

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Project Based Learning (PBL)

Project Based Learning is an innovative approach to teaching children at every grade level. When students are constantly engaged in meaningful projects, they develop an authentic love for learning. It is a transformative experience that promotes deep learning and fosters a sense of purpose in every child. Project Based Learning is an integral aspect of Pardes’ educational program. Project Based Learning at Pardes allows students to work on projects regularly, many of which span over an extended period of time, from one week to an entire semester. With PBL, the project is the vehicle for learning and not something they do at the end of learning to prove understanding. The emphasis of this approach process over product.

At Pardes Jewish Day School, we integrate Project-Based Learning (PBL) into our curriculum to foster deep, hands-on learning that connects students to real-world issues. 
Each grade level participates in a minimum of two PBL units per year, allowing students to engage with core subject areas—math, science, language arts, social studies, jewish studies—in meaningful, interdisciplinary ways.
PBL at Pardes is designed to spark curiosity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Below are some examples of how PBL comes to life across grade levels:

List of 3 items.

  • Kindergarten:

    Our youngest learners dive into nature by studying the pumpkin life cycle. Through this project, students integrate math and science as they explore concepts like seed growth, measurement, and environmental factors that influence plant development. The project concludes with hands-on experience, such as planting seeds or observing the growth of a pumpkin plant over time.

  • Fourth Grade:

    The focus shifts to a more socially conscious project as students explore hunger and food insecurity. This project involves students learning about the causes and impacts of hunger, running a food drive to collect donations, and taking a field trip to a local food bank or shelter. In this way, students connect their classroom learning to real-world problems and contribute to the community through service.

  • Eighth grade Capstone Project:

    Our older students lead interest-based projects in partnership with a teacher mentor. These Capstone Projects are more self-directed, allowing middle school students to pursue topics that excite them, whether it be in the realms of science, social justice, or the arts. Teacher mentors guide them through the research process, help them develop their ideas, and support them in delivering a culminating presentation or project that demonstrates their learning. These capstones are unique in that they allow students to take ownership of their education, nurturing leadership and problem-solving skills.
Across all grade levels, PBL at Pardes connects academic learning with real-world applications. For elementary students, projects are teacher-supported, ensuring students have the guidance and structure needed to explore new ideas and develop their skills. For middle school students, the projects are more independent, with teacher mentors providing oversight while encouraging student autonomy and interest-driven exploration.

Through Project-Based Learning, Pardes students build critical thinking skills, develop empathy, and gain confidence as they tackle complex challenges. These projects help students see the connections between their academic studies and the world around them, creating a powerful and lasting learning experience.

Why Use PBL?

Makerspaces, labs, art studios, PBL are all designed to engage the playful, stimulate  the development of the young mind and sustain that development from TK through  eighth grade. Our responsibility as  educators is to respond effectively to the changes that are being made in our society whether we  want them or not. Our building endeavors and curriculum efforts are based in that reality.

Learning by Making, Creating and Curating 

Central to our approach is our commitment to learning by doing. We give  students the opportunity to demonstrate their mastery of a subject through creating, writing, speaking, collaborating, not just through test taking. At the heart of PBL is inquiry-based instruction. 

Contact

Fax: 480-991-9405

About

Pardes Jewish Day School is a welcoming community Jewish day school committed to exceptional secular and Jewish education with a focus on academics and character development.
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