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5 Ways We Support Metacognitive Learning

The Journey of the Megacognitive Learner – Metacognition is a term that refers to the process of deliberately thinking about one’s own thinking. It means being conscious of not only what you are thinking about, but having awareness of how you are processing the information with the intention of improving your learning. You will no doubt have heard JD say that we focus as much on process as content; metacognitive strategies are a really important element of how we educate our learners. Really exciting research has shown that metacognition can be improved over time through practice and development. In fact, brain scans show more gray matter in the anterior prefrontal cortex (the area of the brain responsible for metacognition) in people who regularly engage in metacognitive strategies. Our Leelanau Learners come to our community with a variable range of metacognitive experiences. Some have attended schools in which metacognition is built into the culture; others have not encountered such strategies. Without metacognition, students can develop misconceptions...

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Mighty Snappy Spring Tour

As a music teacher at the The Leelanau School for 23 years, one of my goals in this very special community is to make music a part of everyone’s life. Whether as a guitar student in one of my classes, as a songwriter in winter term, or simply as someone who sings at the top of their lungs while walking from class to class – I feel that music lifts each soul.

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Scotland and England Trip

“Creative Creatures: A Survey of Western Expression” is designed to investigate the many ways that humanity has exercised the practice of creativity in the western world. From creating civilizations to building architectural structures and monuments to writing, theater, and visual art, western peoples have constantly strived to not only exist in the world but to embellish the world around them.

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Charting the Galápagos Islands

Winter Term During this five-week immersive academic term students have the opportunity to experience two engaging and exciting courses of their choosing. This innovative term – designed and facilitated by our faculty – is strength-based, experiential learning at its best and provides an environment where students can flourish in areas of their interest and/or expertise. From trips that open students’ eyes to the world to courses that allow deep exploration or practical life skills – Winter Term is a time for students and staff to make the most of the winter by doing what brings them joy while learning! During Winter Term students spend two and a half hours per day in each class, giving them ample opportunity to delve deeply into the subject material and produce high quality, creative and original work. 2020 Winter Term Courses Charting the Galápagos Islands 1 History and 1 English Credit This is a full-day course will provide an in-depth investigation into human exploration by looking into why we explore, the qualities of exploration, and the impact...

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St. John’s Island National Park Trip

This Caribbean trip will expose our students to the natural beauty of the islands and the historical seaways of colonization and trade. Students will explore living reefs and sea life, indigenous music and art, the amalgamation of multiple cultures. There will be plenty of opportunity to observe and experience the flora and fauna of this tropical paradise. Students will live in glamorous camping accommodations with opportunities to cook as well as occasionally dine out. Students will delight in typical Caribbean cuisine offered in the Tree Lizards Restaurant located on the campground. Upon satisfactory completion of course requirements, students can earn a ½ credit in science and another ½ credit in social sciences. Instructors: Mr. Blondia, Science and Mr. Ivankovich, Dean of Students

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