Genius
(an exceptional natural capacity of intellect, especially as shown in creative and original work)
-Dictionary.com
Genius Hour is when students are given time and opportunity to develop their own driving question about whatever it is they wish to explore. Topics could be something students already have aptitude for, or it could be something students want to begin for the first time. Genius Hour embodies risk-taking and learning through discovery. You do not have to be a genius to do Genius Hour. It is passion-based and inquiry-based rolled into one. Ready to give it a try? The benefits far outweigh the risks.
A Short DescriptionGenius Hour is an inquiry-driven, passion-based classroom strategy designed to excite and engage students through the unrestrained joy of learning. We (and many other Genius Hour teachers) accomplish this by setting aside time in our weekly classroom schedules when students are able to learn about and create whatever they want, unencumbered by teacher control.
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Genius Hour Origins
If given the time, what would you do?
3M started it in the 1950's with their 15% Project. Employees get to brainstorm and develop new ideas. The result? Post-its and masking tap.
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Google’s employees spend 20% of their time working on a pet project. The result? Gmail, Google News, and the Google Teacher Academy
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Teachers have begun experimenting with the idea of allocating time each week for students to pursue passions via research, design, and presentations.
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