LaRue County Students Get to the ‘Root’ of Plants

At any given point throughout the year in Kentucky, you can look around and see diverse plants and flowers. Most of us might identify a few perennials or local trees. One group of LaRue County students are diving deeper into botany thanks to Project-Based Learning.

Traci Weaver is using Project-Based Learning throughout the school year to give her students a more comprehensive understanding of the world around them.

“We are currently completing research on unique plants and their external structures,” she said. “Students will create an infographic about a plant that interests them.”

Project-Based Learning (PBL) is a key part in reaching the goals set forth by the LaRue County Learner Profile. The profile’s goal is to unpack how students can learn to practically apply their coursework to life outside of school. The concept of PBL isn’t new to education. Educators understand that connecting the dots between curriculum and outside life helps students remember and apply that knowledge once they graduate.

“PBL allows students to take more of a lead in their learning,” Weaver said. “Students are more engaged and interested in the topics/projects. This is different from traditional models because the teacher is just a facilitator and everyone isn't doing the same thing.”

When it comes to plants, for example, Weaver’s students can apply their knowledge in a variety of ways. They can use their research to identify plants when they explore the world around them. Understanding a plant’s structure also connects to understanding the water cycle, minerals found in our area, and gasses found in our atmosphere. From crop production to greenhouse gasses, knowing how plants work is critical for our survival as humans, even when we don’t realize it.

Weaver also noted that the collaboration involved in the project develops soft skills as well.

“PBL will impact students to be more intentional in their learning and learn how to problem solve,” she said.