Table of Contents

Chapter 1: Authentic Learning Experiences: An Introduction

My Story

An Overview of Authentic Learning Experiences

Chapter 2: Creating a Challenging Investigation

Complex Problems

Critical Thinking

The Challenging Investigation

Teaching Critical-Thinking Skills

Sample Authentic Learning Experiences

Chapter 3: Creating the Community/Career Connection

Career Connection

Community Connection

Career Connection Examples

Community Connection Examples

Chapter 4: Justification of One’s Work

Moving Beyond Brainstorming

Making the Most Out of Research

Sample Authentic Learning Experiences

Chapter 5: Creating a Meaningful Outside Audience

What Is a Meaningful Outside Audience?

How to Create an Outside Audience

Using Technology to Connect to Your Audience

The Outside Audience Promotes the Justification Element

Sample Authentic Learning Experiences

Chapter 6: The Common Core and Other State Standards

Testing in the Common Core Era

Directly Connecting the Elements of Authentic Learning Experiences to the Test

Sample Authentic Learning Experiences

Chapter 7: Designing Interdisciplinary Authentic Learning Experiences

A Shift in Thinking .

The Single-Teacher Approach

The Multiple-Teacher Approach

Interdisciplinary Examples

Chapter 8: Authentic Assessment

Formative Assessment: What Is It, Anyway?

Effective Formative Assessment

Summative Assessment Is More Than Just a Test

Final Thoughts

Chapter 9: Facilitating Authentic Learning Experiences

Taking the First Steps

Collaboration Is a Needed Skill

Researching

Scaffolding Is Not Differentiation

Final Thoughts

References

Reviews

"With Authentic Learning Experiences, Dayna Laur has outlined a realistic model for creating dynamic classrooms that will prepare students with the skills, critical thinking and problem solving that will prepare them for their lives. Use this book to experiment and connect with other teachers to transform your classrooms."
—Holly Jobe, President of ISTE"This book pushes you beyond the traditional mode of teaching to one that truly engages students in relevant, authentic life experiences. The examples of Authentic Learning Experiences are inspiring. As a peer coach in my district, I wanted to share the content and examples with many of my colleagues from various levels and contents."
—Erica Ringelspaugh, Adams-Friendship High School, WI"With the advent of the Common Core Standards, educators are constantly looking for valuable resources for the classroom that create authentic learning experiences. This resource provides the background information, explanation, and justification for those authentic learning experiences and additionally addresses the Common Core aspect. The examples provided are outstanding. I appreciated the chapter regarding the "Outside Audience," particularly because it seems to be an area that is overlooked. I also appreciate the information regarding research! My district struggles with authentic research opportunities and this resource provides justification and sound ideas."
—Kim Wagner, Traughber Jr. High, ILThis book provides a wealth of information; interesting, thought-provoking ideas; and a challenge to increase the rigor of our instruction. This book is appropriate for all classroom teachers who seek to improve student engagement, inspire learners, and move toward real-world solutions to our difficult problems.--Kathy Highfield and Laura Pardo, Michigan Reading Journal