What is PROJECT WORK?

“It is a significant practical unit of activity having educational value and aimed at one or
more definite goals of understanding; it involves investigation and solution of problems
and, frequently, the use and manipulation of physical materials; planned and carried out
to completion by pupils and teacher in natural ‘real-life’ manner.”

From Good, C.V. (1973). Dictionary of Education, McGraw-Hill. New York.

Why use Project Work?

 Motivating
 Authentic language use
 Encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning
 Ideal for co-operative learning
 Benefits individual, especially weak students

Characteristics of Project Work

 Based on the study of a theme
 Takes place over a period of time
 Involves students in real investigation and problem-solving tasks
 Student-centred and involves group work
 Teacher = consultant, helper, facilitator
 Requires the use of language for genuine communication
 Involves authentic language work

Organising Project Work

A. Pre-project stage
 Project theme/topic should be discussed and decided by students and the teacher
 Length of project depends on the project theme or topic.
 Teacher role: consultant, helper, facilitator
 Grouping of students – the numbers of students in each group depends on the project
theme or topic and the tasks to be carried out.
 Evaluation system – discussed by students and the teacher in terms of what and how
to evaluate

B. During project Stage

 Brainstorming the topic or theme
 Definition of project & objectives
 Planning details
 Practice of language skills and other relevant skills
 Design of materials
 Collecting information
 Collating information
 Organisation of materials
 Final presentation: report, presentations, exhibitions, displays
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C. Post project stage

 Feedback
 Ss  Ss
 Ts Ss
 Ts Principal/ Director

D. Storage of project (s)