UKEdMag: Encouraging Creative Expression Within Assignments by @RTBCoaching

Students are often asked by their teachers to research and write about other literature as they learn new material. When and where are students provided with the opportunity to utilise their creative minds? Can we instructors differentiate rubrics by asking students to incorporate art or creative writing to demonstrate learning?

I found that offering options to either create a poster, film a video, or write a poem about a certain topic can serve as the fuel needed to spark interest toward potentially mundane tasks. This autumn, I asked students to complete a project including world flags with the corresponding countries and capital cities. One student in particular asked to design a poster incorporating her artistic abilities.

As the deadline approached, the student became nervous about finishing on time, so much so that she sheepishly asked for an extension on the assignment. Rather than accept a less than complete poster, I granted her request.

The final day of the term, she brought in TWO, magnificentlycoloured posters. I was extremely impressed with her work, and she was beaming with pride. I decided that providing students with freedom to express themselves in a creative, artistic way can build confidence and re-ignite a love of learning.

@RTBCoaching Maths Teacher – Evans, Colorado, USA