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Defined Learning

Defined Learning is a supplemental, inquiry-based curriculum designed to provide high-level enrichment through Project-Based Learning (PBL). It is specifically implemented to address the needs of students who have already mastered standard classroom material and require deeper academic challenges. The program shifts the focus from traditional paper and pencil tasks to real-world application. 

Every project in the Defined Learning curriculum is structured using the GRASP model to ensure students apply their knowledge within a professional context:

  • Goal: Students are presented with a specific real-world problem or challenge to solve.
  • Role: Students adopt a professional identity, such as an architect, landscape designer, or engineer, to perform the task.
  • Audience: Students identify and address a specific client or stakeholder for their work.
  • Situation: The project is set within a realistic scenario that provides context and constraints.
  • Product: Students create a tangible final result - such as scale models, blueprints, or digital presentations - to demonstrate their mastery of the subject.

All performance tasks are strictly aligned with Arizona State Standards for Math, ELA, and Science.

The curriculum includes instructional videos and built-in resources that allow students to direct their own learning while teachers provide expert guidance and support. 

At Greenfield, the curriculum is integrated with Gifted classrooms across various grade levels, allowing for differentiated implementation that fits the specific needs of each teacher and student group.

Impact on Student Learning

High Student Engagement: Greenfield has observed a significant increase in engagement; for example, students who have frequently had negative attitudes towards classwork stay more focused on the tasks.

Critical Thinking and Ownership: The program fosters a culture where students own their learning process, moving beyond memorization to investigation, data planning, and collaboration.

Real-World Relevance: By adopting professional roles, students gain a clear understanding of how their academic instruction is applied in professional careers.

  • For example, students learning about planets take the role of a NASA planetary artist. They study the composition of a planet and create an image of what that planet might look like based on what they know, similar to what a graphic artist would do when creating an image of a newfound planet.

On February 20, Greenfield Elementary held a showcase of Defined Learning curriculum in action so other schools in GPS can implement it. There are currently plans for more schools to adopt the curriculum starting in the 2026-27 school year.