Students explored the essential question, “How Can Innovative Ideas Make a Difference?” Based on Google’s concept of Genius Hour and the Stanford Design School, our classroom was transformed to a place where students could dream big. Students interviewed five different organizations in our community: 1)Pacific Preschool, 2) San Marcos City Hall, 3) Vallecitos Water District, 4) San Marcos Police Station, and 5) Escondido Humane Society. From these interviews, students discovered dilemmas that the organizations were having. They were tasked by the organization to create a product that could help provide a resolution. Using a delegated budget, students worked in groups to build a business plan around this innovation. They designed websites, mission statements, logos, business cards and more for their businesses. Throughout the project, students collaborated with their organization to receive critique and feedback on their products. Their final prototypes and products were showcased in a business pitch for audience members to purchase and possibly invest in.

Teacher Reflection:

I was so impressed and inspired by how professional the students were when given the trust to engage in these short internships. They were great listeners and proposed thoughtful ideas that could help resolve their organization’s dilemma. For example, the group who visited the local preschool learned the preschoolers had trouble reading. So they created non-fiction interactive books for the preschoolers to read. The group who went to the San Marcos City Hall learned that there was a trash problem in the community parks. They invented a trash robot called “Trashbot” to clean up our city.

Student Reflections:

I learned that no matter how young you are, you can dream big.

— Peyton

I learned to keep persevering with your ideas and don’t give up on yourself.

—Sinqi

To learn more about this project, please visit Ms.Kim’s digital portfolio:
http://mskimcawkwell.wix.com/htefourthgrade