Tag Archives: blogging101

Project Based Learning – How I got started (& realized it was not really PBL, yet)

I began my career in Melrose in 2013-2014. In that year I also began my exploration of Project Based Learning by creating a quarter-long unit on the Commedia dell’Arte Italian literary period (examples of this are works by Goldoni, the Italian playwright, the creation of stock characters still in use today such as Harlequin, Colombina). Continue reading “Project Based Learning – How I got started (& realized it was not really PBL, yet)”

What Is “Covering the Curriculum” Anyway?

Let’s upgrade our thinking in planning for instruction in the World Language (specifically, the Italian) classroom and throw out our old pacing guides and scopes and sequences! This does not mean we just wing it without thoughtfully planning units but it does help us respond quickly to our learners’ own communicative goals and purposes. It also gives us more time with all of our learners individually, even in larger classes!

Unit Plan (not totally PBL): Exploring “Caro Diario”: An Italian Language Journey through Nanni Moretti’s Film

This plan is best implemented with upper level Italian language students (Levels 4, 5, or AP). In this learning unit, students will dive into the Italian film “Caro Diario” (Dear Diary) directed by Nanni Moretti. Through engaging activities, discussions, and creative projects, students will enhance their Italian language skills while exploring the themes, cultural references, and filmmaking techniques of the movie. They will engage in research, analysis, role-play, and creative expression to deepen their understanding of Italian language and culture.

Unit Plan (not PBL): Exploring Identity through Italian Language and Culture

In this learning unit, students will explore the concept of identity through the lens of Italian language and culture. Through a series of engaging activities and projects, students will deepen their understanding of personal and cultural identities, while improving their Italian language skills. They will engage in research, collaborative discussions, creative expression, and presentations to showcase their learning. Note though that this unit plan is not a true Gold-Standard project-based learning unit, but it does have the elements of research and projects embedded in them, as well as ideas for sharing beyond the classroom and extensions for learning.

What is Project Based Learning and Why is It Important?

Introduction Project-Based Learning (PBL) is an instructional approach that immerses students in authentic, real-world projects to deepen their understanding of academic content and develop essential skills. Unlike traditional classroom methods, PBL offers a dynamic learning experience where students actively investigate, collaborate, and create meaningful solutions. This post highlights the significance of project-based learning in K-12Continue reading “What is Project Based Learning and Why is It Important?”

Welcome to Project-Based Italian!

This site is dedicated to teachers of Italian language at all levels, but predominantly for teachers at the middle and secondary school levels.  There are not that many resources available for teaching Italian language and teachers, in my experience, have had to spend much time not only planning curriculum but also designing materials for thatContinue reading “Welcome to Project-Based Italian!”