Can We Believe This?
Unit Description:
In this 45-minute activity, students are introduced to problem based learning with a scenario involving a local politician who wants to investigate a problematic, suspicious poll conducted by a newspaper columnist. After interviewing someone playing the role of the columnist and considering how a valid public opinion survey should be conducted, students propose possible solutions to the problem. This activity teaches the basic tools of problem based learning – analyzing an Entry Document, writing a Problem Statement, listing “What We Know and “What We Need to Know,” gathering resources, and developing reasonable solutions. Students also learn that PBL requires good questioning skills, creative and critical thinking, and flexibility.
Time required:
45 minutes
