FIRST SEMESTER: THE INDEPENDENT PROJECT STUDY

This project will focus on two main considerations: the higher level thinking skills as defined in Bloom's Taxonomy [analysis, synthesis, evaluation] and an open-ended framework in which the student's personal interests are utilized in a reading, research, and writing experience. Regardless of the student's specific academic abilities, writing becomes paramount in their ability to succeed in the education setting. A trifold [demonstrating scholarly research], a Power Point presentation [demonstrating technology integration], and "model" [demonstrating creative functionality] are required. The entire experience will culminate at the EXCEL Fall Semester Fair.

SECOND SEMESTER:  THE DESIGN TEAM PROJECT

"Airports of the 21st Century:  Designing Air Travel for the Future"

This project will focus on the opportunity to work together, in a cooperative setting, to heighten the student's awareness in teamwork, knowledge integration, meeting objectives of a common goal, and problem-solving skills as related to a shared creative vision.  Additionally, with field experiences coordinated through NASA's Glenn Research Center and Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, there will be opportunities to speak with engineers and planners involved in the research of designing for future air travel.The Spring Semester Design Team project will address diverse cross-curricular applications including a total emphasis of technology integration. Course requirements include a trifold [demonstrating scholarly research], a Power Point presentation [demonstrating technology integration], and "model" [demonstrating creative functionality] are required for the student's public exhibits and discussion. 

The entire experience will culminate in the EXCEL Spring Semester Fair that will be held on Wednesday, May 30, 2012 at 7:00pm. Please join us!

ABOUT THE INSTRUCTOR

The instructor for Project EXCEL is Edward Ristau, M.Ed.  Mr. Ristau received his Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Concordia University, Chicago, Illinois, and his Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction from Cleveland State University.  He is licensed by the Ohio Department of Education in Elementary Education [K-8], Music Education [K-8], Vocal Music [7-12], and as an Intervention Specialist / Gifted and Talented Education [K-12].

Additionally, Mr. Ristau holds professional memberships in the National Education Association, the Ohio Education Association, the Lutheran Education Association, the National Association of Gifted Children, the Ohio Association of Gifted Children, and the Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development.  He has taught previously in the Maple Heights City School District and at Lakewood Lutheran School.