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Primary Sources and Potato Chips: Engaging Students Through Real-World Learning

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W304F

Model Lesson
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Session description

This session models a project-based lesson where students use research skills to connect history, marketing, and creativity. You experience how students analyze primary and secondary sources, then apply their findings to design a unique chip flavor for that team’s stadium. The session emphasizes engagement, collaboration, and authentic learning.

Outline

Content and Engagement:
This session models a project-based lesson where students research a sports team using primary and secondary sources, then apply findings to design a creative product—a new chip flavor for that team’s stadium. Attendees will experience each step of the lesson, discuss adaptations for their classrooms, and collaborate to design their own version of the project.

Time:
Introduction and overview – 10 minutes
Modeling and research activity – 15 minutes
Project creation and collaboration – 20 minutes
Sharing and discussion – 10 minutes
Reflection and wrap-up – 5 minutes

Process:
The session will include frequent audience interaction through small-group collaboration, device-based research, and creative brainstorming. Attendees will work together to analyze sample sources, design a mock chip flavor, and share ideas for connecting academic standards to authentic, engaging student projects.

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Outcomes

After this session, participants will be able to implement a project-based lesson that combines research, creativity, and collaboration to deepen student engagement. They will learn how to guide students in analyzing primary and secondary sources, connect academic content to real-world applications, and design authentic projects that promote curiosity and teamwork.

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Supporting research

Library of Congress. Using Primary Sources in the Classroom. https://www.loc.gov/teachers/usingprimarysources

Buck Institute for Education (PBLWorks). Project-Based Learning: Why It Matters. https://www.pblworks.org

John Larmer & John R. Mergendoller. Setting the Standard for Project-Based Learning. ASCD, 2015.

Project Management Institute Educational Foundation (PMIEF). Resources for Teaching Project Management to Youth. https://pmief.org

DECA Inc. Project-Based Learning and Career Readiness Resources. https://www.deca.org

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Presenters

Photo
Director of Technology
Hampshire County Schools

Session specifications

Topic:

Project-, Problem-, and Challenge-Based Learning

Grade level:

9-12

Audience:

Teacher Prep, Teacher

Attendee devices:

Devices useful

Attendee device specification:

Smartphone: Android, iOS, Windows
Laptop: Chromebook, Mac, PC
Tablet: Android, iOS, Windows

Participant accounts, software and other materials:

Attendees should bring a laptop or tablet with internet access for research and collaboration activities. Access to Google Workspace tools such as Google Docs and Google Slides (https://workspace.google.com
) is recommended for note-taking and project creation. Participants may also use online resources such as the Library of Congress (https://www.loc.gov
) or National Archives (https://www.archives.gov
) for exploring primary and secondary sources. No additional downloads are required. Optional: bring a favorite snack to inspire your own “stadium flavor” idea!

Subject area:

Business/Economics, Vocational

ISTE Standards:

For Educators: Designer, Facilitator, Analyst

Transformational Learning Principles:

Spark Curiosity, Prioritize Authentic Experiences