8th Grade POD Projects

This month, 8th graders finished presenting their Projects of Discovery (POD). Students designed video games, made cymbals and a guitar pedal, upcycled clothing, taught a lesson on climate change to 4th graders, created a comedic juggling routine, and organized a basketball tournament fundraiser—among other pursuits. Every year, POD projects are evidence of the students’ passions and their commitment to independent learning.

Eighth graders flourish under POD’s project-based learning (PBL) methods and flexible framework. Working from a broad topic, each student develops a final product while learning the essential skills of project management. They learn how to devise a plan, focus their attention, and multi-task to meet their deadlines. POD provides the experience 8th graders need to develop their working memory, mental flexibility, and self-discipline before they enter high school where self-direction is the norm. Weekly in-class skill-building activities are accompanied by one-on-one meetings with advisors when students set goals and measure their progress.

“Communication, collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking drives group activities and underpins student projects,” says POD Teacher Melissa Hill.

Two trimester’s worth of work coalesces on presentation night, where 8th graders can be seen showcasing their projects to visitors. The intimate atmosphere of a showcase encourages rich dialogue and a space where students shine as experts in their fields of study.