Neighbor News
Blended Learning at St. Germaine School
The sixth graders in Mrs. Hinkelmann's social studies class were studying the civilization of ancient Greece.
But, they were doing it in an unusually engaging way. Teachers at St. Germaine are beginning to implement learning strategies that is often called “Blended Learning.” Students often rotate thru a series of learning stations that enrich the usual textbook content. The sixth graders created an “ABC” book of important vocabulary, people and places from ancient Greece. They decoded messages written using ancient Greek letters, read several informational articles on a website called “Read Works Digital,” and met with Mrs. Hinklemann in small groups to discuss their findings.
What could have been a series of “dry” lectures based on textbook information expanded to include information that students discovered on websites, photos, maps, and other resources. The students enjoyed their work—and participated eagerly every minute of the class!
Teachers in all classes at St. Germaine are adding website resources, practice and extension activities that students can explore both at school and at home. At St. Germaine, students in Grades 5-8 are issued a chromebook to facilitate this engaged learning at home and at school.
St. Germaine School in Oak Lawn provides an outstanding educational experience for students from 3-year-old pre-school to eighth grade. The St. Germaine School community is strong and growing, with updated technology, a variety of sports programs as well as a half and full day pre-school.
