Authentic Lessons for 21st Century Learning

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Patricia McDaniels-Gomez's Profile

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Patricia McDaniels-Gomez

LEARN Author

K20 Center

About Me

Recent Publications

Web of Connections

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate

The activity uses string to create a web that shows group connections by highlighting commonalities among participants. Read more »

Strategy Instructional Strategy

User Group Group Size

  • Whole Class

Copied To Clipboard Placement In Lesson

  • Engage/Opening

Time Frame Time To Complete

  • 10 - 20 Minutes

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Active Engagement, Conversation Starter, Physical Movement, Speak & Listen

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate
The Success Loop

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate

Students work together in teams to move a hula hoop though a line without letting go of hands, learning how strategy and support improve success. Read more »

Strategy Instructional Strategy

User Group Group Size

  • Medium Group (at least 10)

Copied To Clipboard Placement In Lesson

  • Engage/Opening

Time Frame Time To Complete

  • 10 - 20 Minutes

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Active Engagement, Collaborate, Critical Thinking, Physical Movement, Problem Solving

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate
Picture the Possibilities

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 6th - Secondary

The activity is a group puzzle challenge that highlights the importance of guidance, communication, and shared vision when working together. Read more »

Strategy Instructional Strategy

User Group Group Size

  • Small Group (at least 4)

Copied To Clipboard Placement In Lesson

  • Engage/Opening

Time Frame Time To Complete

  • 10 - 20 Minutes

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Active Engagement, Collaborate, Critical Thinking, Problem Solving

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 6th - Secondary
Human Knot

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate

The Human Knot is a fun, interactive activity that encourages teamwork, communication, and problem-solving through collaboration. Read more »

Strategy Instructional Strategy

User Group Group Size

  • Large Group (at least 30), Medium Group (at least 10), Whole Class

Copied To Clipboard Placement In Lesson

  • Engage/Opening

Time Frame Time To Complete

  • 10 - 20 Minutes

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Collaborate, Critical Thinking, Physical Movement, Problem Solving, Reflection

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 9th - Undergraduate
Drawn Together

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 6th - Secondary

This is a collaborative string-drawing challenge that requires teamwork to create a shared image. Read more »

Strategy Instructional Strategy

User Group Group Size

  • Small Group (at least 4)

Copied To Clipboard Placement In Lesson

  • Engage/Opening

Time Frame Time To Complete

  • 10 - 20 Minutes

Tag Intention Or Purpose

  • Collaborate, Critical Thinking, Physical Movement, Problem Solving

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 6th - Secondary
Ice Breaker Collection

Grade Level Grade Level

  • 6th - Secondary

Looking for quick ice breaker activities? This collection of ice breakers offers numerous strategies that can be adapted for a variety of circumstances. Options range from lighthearted games to structured discussion, from personal to broadly applicable. These strategies create opportunities for participants... Read more »

Lesson Collection

This brief examines the impact of school-based STEM clubs on students' academic performance and interest in STEM careers. The study found that participation in math and science clubs is associated with higher GPAs and increased the likelihood of selecting a STEM major in college, with notable differences... Read more »

This brief explores the integration of career forums within academic settings to enhance college students' career readiness. It outlines the research design, sample, and results, providing practical steps for schools to replicate the intervention. Read more »

Students will explore and experience a mock PSI enrollment event. They will choose a PSI path: college or career tech. They will then be assigned an award letter that outlines the financial aid estimate they can use at their chosen PSI. Next, students will enroll in school and calculate expenses for... Read more »

Educator Resource
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Time Frame

Participants learn how to plan and host a Future U: The Enrollment Adventure event at their schools. They experience sample booths that let them see what the event can feel like for students. Afterwards, participants reflect on the process and discuss some of the benefits and challenges of coordinating... Read more »

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