FLEX-TIME
Summary
FLEX represents an opportunity for our students and teachers to explore big ideas and big understandings that extend beyond individual disciplines. These explorations are co-taught and driven by a collective interest— resulting in meaningful outcomes and wonderful student/teacher relationships. In essence, it is an active period of time when teachers and students connect, collaborate and create together.
FAQs
1. What does FLEX stand for?
It stands for Forging Learning Experiences across all Disciplines.
2. Why do we have FLEX?
We have FLEX for a variety of reasons. Here are the main two:
· Maximize teacher’s ability to make cross-curricular and personal connections
· Allow teachers and students to explore learning opportunities together, outside individual disciplines
3. What is an example of a FLEX project?
· “APP & Share”: A modern day Show and Tell, each student identifies an app worth exploring and presents it to the class, as everyone follows along on their own tablet.
· Public Speaking Performance: each student receives a role and is provided five minutes to prepare a 2-3 minute speech. Peers and teachers provide feedback.
· Maker Space Exploration and Build-Off in the Learning Commons. [link to Academics>Learning Commons page]
Example Flex Challenge given to Malvern Prep Middle School Students:
There are outstanding examples of teaching and learning throughout Good Counsel (the Middle School building). Dynamic projects, creative presentations and informative assessments are just some of the results from our quest to maximize student achievement. Yet, our Middle School community rarely gets to enjoy these demonstrations of learning throughout the academic year. Furthermore, few pictures that adorn our hallways reflect our current student body and faculty.
Challenge: To redesign Good Counsel to reflect 21st century teaching and learning and reflect the people that make this space so unique.
Be Creative—Both Sullivan Hall and Carney Hall recently underwent renovations. As a result, there are volumes of leftovers across campus that may be of use in your redesign.
Be Precise—Maintenance has offered to assist in our redesign (ie, paint, hanging/re-hanging items, and ordering of items). If your redesign requires their assistance, your group will need to attach a detailed Request Form, outlining your needs and measurements. These forms are available in Mrs. Lott’s Office.
Non-Negotiable—All Class Pictures and Awards must stay in Good Counsel. They may be re-hung more intentionally, but they must remain visible.
Building Assignments:
Grade 6: Bottom floor of Good Counsel
Grade 7: Top Floor of Good Counsel
Grade 8: Stairwells of Good Counsel