Section One looks cogent. At first I thought the driving question might be too broad, but on further reflection it fits nicely in context of what the students will be doing. Literally, they are collecting data that will continue to shape their understanding and perspective. Great job!

I love the idea. This will really get kids invested in the learning. It is very well thought out and I can see the whole picture by reading the plan. I think the strongest component is the use of experts in the field. The use of an actual detective will also create a strong "buy in" and "real world" experience for the students. It would be really interesting if after this unit they could actually find some "unsolved" cases that may give info on the evidence that was presented and try to come up with their conclusions based on the info that was given in the case.

I also thought that the driving question may be a bit broad...should it be a little more definitive, like - how do we use the act of observation to reach a strong and valid conclusion about things that have happened around us? Or using some of those terms.

What an exciting way to start off the school year! I like the fact that your plan emphasizes hands-on learning and gives students the opportunity to develop their reasoning skills. I also agree that the use of experts is a great idea and will make what the kids do in classroom authentic. Great Job!

Emailed thoughts from Cathy Welton:

"I read through your PBL project and was going to comment on the end but there is a message at the end of the page that states I do not have permission to comment on this page...John's comment was posted on there so I assume just the "mentors" have permission.

Anyway, I thought the project sounded very interesting and you did a great job planning it through. The students will definitely enjoy.

A couple things I had questions on were:
Is each student doing an individual theory rubric and then they are doing a group theory rubric?
When they present is it as a group(theory) or individual?
For me it would be difficult to start a project the first day of school...I would be tempted to start the following week.
I hope I have helped...good luck!

Cathy"

Well crafted project. The Project Teaching and Learning Guide does a good job of addressing key skills and concepts. Will the students need to learn how to use a Wiki, or will they already have had that experience in a previous learning unit? Under the "Culminating Products and Performances" it looks like there are clear details that distinguish between group and individual work to be assessed. The rubrics have many categories to assessed. This can work. The students will need a solid understanding of each rubric prior to starting the assessment work so that they can self-check and do a quality job.What a great way to kick off the school year. The students are in for a pleasant and engaging surprise!

WOW, I really liked the part about the students coming into a classroom that is set up like a crime scene! What an attention grabber. Your utilization of "real" experts will only enhance the lesson for your students. I think having each student keep an individual journal beefs up the accountability factor. I think that you have a good combination of technology, along with with real life experiences.