Last mentor meeting

Yesterday we had the last mentor meeting, that mostly consisted of the students presented their complete project to their mentors, as a mock Exhibition and a practice for the big day.  It was truly amazing to see how far along some of the groups had come and that they are solidified their understanding of their topic and were able to articulate it to an adult audience. 

The mentors used the oral presentation rubric and gave their group feedback, including the positive and the points that needed improvement.  The confidence of the students was well noted while the presentation skills needed some more honing, with the usual “stop fidgeting” to make sure you present your action plan in an obvious manner. 

Overall I spent 2 full hours listening to just 4 presentations, as the boys were thorough in their presentation and wanted to receive feedback before me moving to the next group.  Their mentors did the same and used most of a full 50 minutes to listen to their group presentation and giving them feedback. Again, the students have build their understanding, some deeper than others.  Having them use the key concepts to frame their questions has helped them go deeper into their issue. 

Their displays are varied and come to life when explanations are given.  Some students went all out in their technology use and made documentaries, breaking news flash, created logos for their group that they are using on their display, tee-shirts, and brochures..  The action plans they are putting into practice are also varied, ranging from flyers around the school, websites, tee-shirts, CD Rom full of information, passing out water bottles with modified labels, only using recycled boards/papers/notebooks to present their presentation... 

I can’t wait for the Exhibition itself and for the school community to view all their hard work!