NBL Challenges
NBL Challenges Explained
NBL challenges promote discovery, exploring and appreciating nature by posing simple but provocative nature questions. NBL challenges create 10 questions (problems to solve). These challenges are to be solved in small groups via discussions and thinking. These activities need to be conducted near the element being studied. That is, if you are studying water, you need a stream, lake or river near by.
The challenges start off fairly easy but become more complex as the group grow in confidence and solidify the teamwork. Most challenges will take about 15 to 25 minutes to complete. On key element is that students need to "present" their findings. This reinforces the learning/discovery process, and validates each students participation.
Grouping Participants
Get students into groups. NBL prefers groups of 4 to 6 students. It isn’t a rule, but some advice. Big groups don’t give students an even chance to shine and participate. Too small lacks excitement.The first session should be to break students into groups and make sure they all knoweach other. Some casual introductions are useful. Ice breaking activities are
encouraged. The group needs to be comfortable with the leader and each other.
Some expectation and rules should be set. Students should stay together. Voices
should be controlled. No shouting and screaming…quiet. We are in nature and we
don’t want to scare the bears or birds!
More Thoughts on Grouping
Get students into groups. NBL prefers groups of 4 to 6 students. It isn’t a rule, but some advice. Big groups don’t give students even chance to shine and participate. Too small lacks excitement.
The first session should be to break students into groups and make sure they all know each other. Some casual introductions are useful. Ice breaking activities are encouraged. The group needs to be comfortable with the leader and each other.
Some expectation and rules should be set. Students should stay together. Voices should be controlled. No shouting and screaming…quiet. We are in nature and we
don’t want to scare the bears or birds!
Sample Challenge
Each challenge draws inspection and analysis of an element of a particular nature topic. Students will need to examine and discuss their findings and thoughts. Each challenge is described in full including the level of difficulty, suggested time allotment, the educational goals of the challenge and the location/equipment necessary. That is, each challenge is self-explanatory. Teachers should feel free to adapt or modify given their location, students and conditions. Good luck.