As their self-designed projects slowly round into shape — second drafts due tomorrow — we did some writing in defense of the project process followed by a debate where they had to stand up against the curmudgeons of the world.   Here are a number of great quotes from their writing:

If you think that project work is just playing, come spend a day there and you will most definitely see differently.  JH

We know how to solve real world problems and how to handle difficult situations.  JJ

The only issue (with creating their own projects) now is motivation.   ES

The only way (students)’ll learn is by experience and with that experience they can produce even better projects that will not only represent themselves but the school as well.   JR

The (students) who play do not define the students who don’t.  JR

Words don’t mean anything unless you can show proof.  TD

If we have an idea, (the teachers) help us turn it into reality.  JG

Look at the trackers to see what they did that day.   TC

Your mom isn’t ready for this project.  IB

My answer to the second question (always do what you ask the kids to do!)

That’s true.  Many of the students are missing basic skills.   But the only way kids “catch up” is when they want to catch up, when they realize how far behind they are.   You can’t give or install basic skills; they develop when folks are motivated.   School, then, becomes a place where they realize the basic skills they might lack and try and build them because they need them in service of a project.