One thing all teachers can agree on is that we love to see our students thrive in the classroom. After implementing Tract this year, that’s exactly what’s happening! For those that aren’t familiar with Tract, it’s an online, project-based learning program for any subject area. You can learn more details in a previous blog post here. Since my students started using Tract, they’re begging for more!
Set Students Up for Success
From the get-go, students have a clear understanding of what Tract is and how to use it. This is all thanks to their live onboarding program. One of Tract’s amazing team members will meet with you and your class at the time that works best to explain Tract, allow students (and teachers) to ask questions, and facilitate students’ first lesson. I was concerned that this would be near impossible to schedule for all 5 of my classes, but that was not the case. Teachers can schedule a 30, 45, or 60 minute session. Since lunch cuts into my 3rd period class, I knew we would need an odd time. I was easily able to message the team and request to start 10 minutes later than scheduled. The kids loved having the opportunity to interact with the program, and the members of the Tract team that led the sessions were very relatable with each class.
Student Choice is Endless
Tract has tons of projects for students to choose from in all the areas that will keep them totally engaged. Whether it’s gaming, music, art, or TikTok, there are options for all learning types and levels. You can filter projects by category, subject area, grade level, skill, standards, and even hashtags. Teachers can also choose which projects they want students to choose from. I created a Google Doc for my students with links to several options. The “paths” students could choose from were based on our current curriculum and standards of focus. This is also a great way to differentiate in the classroom. Again, these elements allow me to set students up for success while still allowing them to choose their projects. Check out the video below to watch as I filter the options and create the Google Doc that students will use to decide on their next projects.
See How Students Thrive in the Classroom
There are times when I allow my students to choose from any of the projects based on interests. This is great for Genius Hour, early finishers, or however you see fit. Students love any opportunity they have to get on Tract. Not only are they learning in the process, but another motivating factor are the coins they earn. This adds a competition and gaming feel to the program. Check out my students’ latest projects below.
Join Tract free by using the access code litwithlyns. I’d love to hear how you use Tract once you get started. Let me know in the comments or shoot me an email. To learn more about Tract and other ways you can incorporate technology in the middle school ELA classroom, join my Facebook group- Middle School ELA Digital Learning.
