Multigenre assignments: We Learn Differently

M

More than ever, today's teachers are faced with the challenge of keeping up with the various ways our students learn, and the speeds with which they do so.  Although some students learn better by hearing (lecture style), others learn by doing (kinesthetic), etc...Keeping students interested and participating in the learning process is another challenge.  We are expected to put together lesson plans that challenge out students, yet are flexible and relevant to today's life.  There is a reason for that.  Studies have shown that "In addition, when students work in classrooms where a high level of success is fostered, positive influences related to stu- dents’ wanting to learn and being excited about the subjects they are studying have been noted in educational research" (Painter, 2009).  One of the ways we can achieve this is by asking our students to complete multigenre papers.  These are multilayered papers that allow students to blend poetry and personal narratives with facts and imagination.  In addition to the regular curriculum, these types of learning activities allow students to formulate their own learning about topics that are interesting or important to them.  Some of the essential questions were the following:

• "How are things, people, and events connected to one another?
  
• How can one express one’s ideas in a variety of genres?
  
• How do effective writers hook and hold their readers?" (Painter, 2009).
  
  Two students having the same interests were partnered together for collaborative purposes. The teams were asked to create word clouds about the things pertaining to their topics that they could write about.  They were each given all of the resources necessary for them to complete the project, including district approved websites.  All of the students enjoy this particular assignment because it allows them to really express themselves and their interests.
  
  Some of the students expressed their knowledge through the use of poetry, drawing cartoons, and writing narratives; while others enjoyed using PowerPoint presentations and timelines. It was particularly gratifying to see special needs students attack this assignment with gusto.  Since it was successful, I'm confident in stating this method of learning will be incorporated more often within our classroom!

Painter, D. D. (2009). Providing differentiated learning experiences through multigenre projects. Intervention in School and Clinic, 44(5), 288-293. doi:http://dx.doi.org/10.1177/1053451208330900