Project-based learning (PBL) has become a prominent approach in K–12 education, and for good reason. It’s far more than just a trendy term for hands-on activities; when implemented effectively, PBL deepens knowledge retention, expands students’ understanding of the world, and can even spark ideas about future careers. This dynamic learning method genuinely involves students in their education and equips them for real-world success. Crucially, project-based learning fosters the development of essential 21st-century skills like critical thinking, problem-solving, collaboration, and effective communication, skills that are invaluable throughout life.
PBL is versatile and can be integrated into any subject and adapted for all grade levels. It’s particularly effective for engaging diverse learners, including English language learners and students with special needs, by catering to varied learning styles and paces.
This blog post will explore 10 project-based learning examples ready for your K–12 classroom. Prepare to be inspired by how PBL can revolutionize your teaching and boost student engagement.
Explore project-based learning principles for elementary schools >>
Understanding Project-Based Learning
Project-based learning is an instructional method that empowers students to apply theoretical knowledge to solve real-world problems within the classroom. In a PBL environment, classrooms are structured to encourage collaborative work on authentic tasks and challenges. By actively participating in hands-on learning experiences, students acquire and solidify their understanding in ways directly relevant to their lives and future applications.
PBL is suitable for learners from preschool through 12th grade and beyond, extending into higher education and professional training. PBL activities are diverse, ranging from classroom debates and community service initiatives to immersive field trips and language programs. The duration of PBL engagements is flexible; some may be completed within a single class period, while more complex projects, like long-term research endeavors, can span a year or more.
For an activity to be considered true project-based learning, it should incorporate most, if not all, of these key elements:
- An Open-Ended Question or Challenge: Projects begin with a question, problem, or challenge that doesn’t have a single, straightforward answer, encouraging deeper exploration.
- Inquiry-Based Learning: PBL fosters curiosity and questioning, driving students to investigate and seek answers through research and exploration.
- Building on Prior Knowledge: New knowledge and skills are acquired and built upon existing understanding, creating a connected and progressive learning experience.
- Higher-Level Skills Development: PBL emphasizes critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity, pushing students beyond rote memorization.
- Student Voice and Choice: Learners have a degree of autonomy in project direction and presentation, increasing engagement and ownership.
- Feedback and Revision: Opportunities for constructive feedback from instructors and peers allow for reflection and improvement throughout the project.
- Public Presentation: Students share their project outcomes, research process, and findings with an audience, enhancing communication skills and accountability.
PBL is frequently utilized in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) or STEAM (STEM plus Arts) education. This is because these fields are deeply integrated into our daily lives. The “learning by doing” approach makes potentially complex or intimidating STEM subjects more approachable and tangible for many students, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation.
Explore the numerous benefits of project-based learning, including enhanced critical thinking, stronger connections between education and the real world, improved long-term knowledge retention, and the cultivation of lifelong curiosity and a passion for learning.
Remember, PBL is not a rigid, one-size-fits-all method. The following examples should be adapted to suit your students’ specific needs, curriculum requirements, and learning environment.
10 Practical Project-Based Learning Examples for Your Classroom
The following 10 project-based learning examples are designed to be adaptable to any classroom, grade level, and curriculum, catering to diverse student needs and learning objectives.
As you review these examples, consider how they embody the core criteria of effective project-based learning.
1. Design and Launch a Website
Project Challenge: Develop a website that solves a problem and effectively markets the solution to a target audience.
Project Description: Challenge students to identify a problem in their school, community, or even globally, and then devise a digital solution. Utilizing user-friendly website builders like Wix or Squarespace, students will create websites to promote their solutions. This project blends research with digital literacy as students research their chosen problem, develop website content, design user-friendly layouts, and conduct usability testing. Peer review is integrated through website critiques, where students provide constructive feedback to enhance user experience and website effectiveness.
The learning outcomes for this project are naturally integrated through the website’s purpose. Effective PBL requires students to acquire and apply new skills and knowledge throughout the project lifecycle, and website creation inherently fosters this.
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Web Design Principles
- Digital Marketing Basics
- Content Creation and Curation
- User Experience (UX) Design
- Problem-Solving and Innovation
- Communication and Collaboration
2. Public Service Announcement (PSA) Video Campaign
Project Challenge: Create a persuasive PSA video advocating for a positive change within the school environment.
Project Description: Organize students into teams to produce Public Service Announcement (PSA) videos focused on a school-related issue they care about. Students will act as advocates for change, developing informative or persuasive arguments suitable for various platforms—from school announcements to social media campaigns. Each team will research their chosen issue, write compelling scripts, and handle video production, dividing tasks based on individual skills and interests.
This project naturally aligns with English Language Arts curriculum, enhancing writing, rhetoric, and media literacy skills. However, project-based learning inherently facilitates cross-curricular connections. For example, students could incorporate data visualization of survey results (math) or explore the social impact of their chosen issue (social studies).
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Persuasive Writing and Communication
- Video Production and Editing
- Research and Data Collection (Surveys)
- Data Visualization (Bar Graphs, Charts)
- Civic Engagement and Advocacy
- Teamwork and Collaboration
3. Real-Time Response to Current Events
Project Challenge: Analyze the impact of a current event and propose solutions or raise awareness.
Project Description: Use a current event as a springboard for in-depth learning. For example, “How might a local price increase on essential goods affect access for low-income families?” Students begin with research, exploring cultural, historical, or economic contexts related to the event. The project culminates in taking action, which could range from writing letters to policymakers or relevant businesses proposing solutions, to launching an awareness campaign within the school or community.
Emphasize objective reporting and fact-based analysis, using examples of journalistic integrity as models. Encourage students to consider not only the factual details but also the broader societal implications of the event. What information does the public need to understand the issue’s significance?
Students can present their findings through various mediums: written articles, multimedia presentations, or even short news-style video reports. Projects like these effectively engage students with complex, relevant topics, fostering critical thinking about the world around them.
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Research and Analysis Skills
- Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving
- Civic Awareness and Engagement
- Effective Communication (written and oral)
- Media Literacy and Journalism Principles
- Understanding of Socio-economic Issues
Education isn’t just about absorbing facts. It’s about applying knowledge to create something new and meaningful. Project-based learning allows students to see that what they’re learning is more than just isolated facts or concepts; learning transforms into an exciting adventure.
— Brian Beierle, SmartLab Facilitator, Prairie View Elementary School, East Troy, WI
4. Model Bridge Engineering and Construction
Project Challenge: Apply physics principles to design, build, and test a model bridge for strength and durability.
Project Description: STEM projects are ideal for engaging students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. In this project, students learn and apply physics concepts and mathematical skills to design, construct, and rigorously test a model bridge.
Students can work individually or collaboratively. The process includes researching different bridge types, selecting appropriate materials based on their properties, and testing the bridge’s load-bearing capacity. After presenting their design and testing process to the class, students can engage in a friendly competition, testing bridges against each other to identify the most structurally sound designs and material combinations. This hands-on project fosters critical thinking and the practical application of theoretical knowledge.
Project-based learning empowers our students to become critical thinkers, effective communicators, and strong collaborators. We believe this approach will enable them to make significant contributions to the world and become true innovators.
— Dr. Tracy Bonday, Head of School, Ursuline Academy, New Orleans, LA
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Engineering Design Process
- Physics Principles (Forces, Structures)
- Mathematical Skills (Measurement, Calculation)
- Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Collaboration and Teamwork
- Scientific Inquiry and Testing
5. Community Mural Project
Project Challenge: Conceive, plan, and execute a public art mural, navigating logistical and collaborative aspects.
Project Description: Public art enlivens spaces and offers a powerful medium for community engagement. In this project, students collaboratively brainstorm and identify a suitable location for a mural, either on school grounds or within the local community. They will work together to secure necessary permissions, develop a budget, procure materials, conceptualize the mural’s theme and design, and then bring their vision to life through painting.
Arts-based projects not only cultivate creativity but also build essential project management skills. Planning and executing a public mural requires students to manage budgets, timelines, and stakeholder input effectively.
Integrating math is natural: younger students can measure the mural space using non-standard units, while older students can use equations to optimize budgets based on mural size and material choices.
In the SmartLab, students are actively involved in hands-on, problem-based learning. It’s not only a different way to learn, but it’s also genuinely fun and engaging!
— Jenny Ledin, SmartLab Facilitator, Prairie View Elementary, East Troy, WI
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Artistic Expression and Creativity
- Project Management Skills (Budgeting, Planning)
- Community Engagement and Collaboration
- Mathematical Applications (Measurement, Budgeting)
- Communication and Presentation Skills
- Public Art Principles and Practices
6. Food Bank Awareness and Engagement Campaign
Project Challenge: Develop and implement a campaign to increase awareness and donations for a local food bank.
Project Description: Integrate community service with learning by partnering with a local food bank. Students begin by visiting the food bank to interview staff, gather information for marketing materials, and hear stories from community members who benefit from its services. This research forms the basis for creating compelling calls for donations and volunteers, as well as outreach initiatives to inform underserved communities about the food bank’s resources.
The service component can occur during or outside of school hours. Classroom time is used to research food insecurity issues within their community and brainstorm sustainable solutions to address hunger. Projects like these foster community integration, connect learning to real-world social problems, and cultivate empathy and compassion.
The skills developed through project-based learning foster good citizenship and well-rounded individuals. It builds upon foundational skills and instills the positive attitudes we want to see in our classrooms and communities.
— Hallinan Elementary School, Lake Oswego, OR
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Community Service and Civic Responsibility
- Research and Information Gathering
- Marketing and Public Awareness Campaign Development
- Empathy and Social Awareness
- Communication and Interpersonal Skills
- Understanding of Social Issues (Food Insecurity)
7. Podcast Production
Project Challenge: Create and produce a compelling podcast episode using audio storytelling techniques.
Project Description: Podcast creation is a highly engaging technology-based project. Students can choose a topic aligned with curriculum units or pursue personal interests, focusing on developing strong research and communication skills. The project involves topic research, scriptwriting, audio recording, editing, and publishing the podcast on platforms like Podbean or Soundcloud. This project allows students to explore digital storytelling and develop valuable audio production skills.
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Digital Storytelling and Audio Production
- Research and Scriptwriting
- Communication and Presentation Skills (Audio)
- Technology Skills (Recording, Editing, Publishing)
- Creative Expression
- Project Planning and Execution
8. Purposeful Field Trip: Environmental Action
Project Challenge: Investigate and propose solutions for a local environmental issue.
Project Description: Transform a field trip into a focused investigation of human impact on the natural environment. For schools near coastal areas, a field trip could focus on trash accumulation affecting waterways and marine life. Students would visit the site to make detailed observations, collect samples, and take measurements.
Enhance the project by involving local environmental conservation experts. Students can interview experts to gain deeper insights into the problem and potential solutions. Culminate the project by having students use 3D printing to create prototypes of solutions. Invite the conservation experts back to hear student presentations and provide feedback on the feasibility and innovation of their proposed solutions.
Elementary SmartLab HQs have been transformative, enabling our district to fully integrate and align STEAM programming across K–12. The unique methods for engaging students in meaningful, inquiry-based learning experiences are rapidly helping our learners develop a stronger STEAM identity, and they now envision their futures differently – believing they can shape the future!
— Clint Allison, Executive Director of Student Achievement, Fountain-Fort Carson School District 8, Fountain, CO
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Environmental Science and Awareness
- Scientific Observation and Data Collection
- Problem-Solving and Innovation (Environmental Solutions)
- 3D Design and Printing
- Community Engagement and Expert Collaboration
- Presentation and Communication Skills
9. Mock Trial Simulation
Project Challenge: Construct and present a legal case within a mock trial setting.
Project Description: Mock trials are excellent for developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and persuasive argumentation skills. Students take on roles as lawyers and witnesses in a simulated court case, learning about the legal system and courtroom procedures firsthand.
Each student assumes a specific courtroom role—judge, defense attorney, prosecuting attorney, jury member, witness. Once the case facts are established, students prepare their arguments and conduct a realistic trial simulation.
Enhance cross-curricular connections by integrating language arts and history. Base the mock trial on a historical event, focusing on impacted populations represented by plaintiffs and defendants, bringing history to life through active engagement.
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Critical Thinking and Argumentation
- Public Speaking and Persuasion
- Legal System and Civic Education
- Historical Understanding and Empathy
- Role-Playing and Performance Skills
- Collaboration and Teamwork
10. Shark Tank Business Pitch
Project Challenge: Develop a comprehensive business plan and compelling pitch to attract investors.
Project Description: Inspired by the reality TV show “Shark Tank,” students create their own mock startups. This project involves market research, product testing (or service development), and crafting persuasive pitches to convince “investors” (teachers, community members, or local entrepreneurs) to fund their ventures. Students hone research, persuasive communication, public speaking, budgeting, and collaborative skills.
Consider partnering with your local SCORE chapter (a non-profit network providing mentorship to small businesses) to have representatives coach students on their business pitches, providing real-world feedback and guidance.
Explore how to implement project-based learning in high school classrooms >>
Targeted Learning Outcomes:
- Entrepreneurship and Business Planning
- Market Research and Analysis
- Financial Literacy and Budgeting
- Persuasive Communication and Pitching
- Public Speaking and Presentation Skills
- Collaboration and Teamwork
Project-Based Learning: Planning Your Units
Project-based learning is not a single lesson; it’s a series of interconnected lessons that build upon diverse skills. PBL unit durations are flexible, ranging from several weeks to even a year or more—there are no rigid time constraints for PBL engagements.
The core of PBL is hands-on, interactive learning focused on problem-solving and real-world applications, moving beyond rote memorization. PBL is inherently student-centered, contrasting with more teacher-directed traditional lessons.
When designing cross-curricular PBL units, start with the seven key criteria of effective PBL as a guide or checklist. Follow these steps to structure your PBL units:
- Define Learning Outcomes: Clearly identify the learning objectives and curriculum standards you aim to achieve before lesson planning begins.
- Brainstorm Authentic Problems: Consider real-world problems relevant to students—their lives, school, community, or the wider world—to ground projects in authentic contexts.
- Integrate Content and Skills: Design lessons that require students to learn specific content and skills and then apply them to develop solutions or complete the project tasks. Start with core subject areas and then explore cross-curricular connections to broaden learning.
- Structure Your Unit: Break the project into manageable steps and sequence instruction within the project timeline. Anchoring project steps to established processes like the scientific method can provide a useful framework.
- Define Student Roles: Determine if students will work individually or in groups. Will they contribute to a class-wide project or manage their own projects from start to finish?
- Establish Success Criteria: Clearly define project completion and success. Ensure students understand the project objectives and the skills they are expected to develop.
- Develop Assessment Strategies: Design a grading rubric that assesses all project phases—from planning and execution to the final product—providing a holistic evaluation of student learning.
Creating effective PBL unit plans can be challenging, but resources are available. SmartLab Learning assists schools and educators in designing and implementing engaging PBL STEAM learning environments aligned with core academics, fostering essential academic and life skills. Their hands-on, authentic activities empower students to construct their own understanding and explore topics in depth.
Ready to Implement PBL?
With these inspiring examples, you’re well-equipped to start developing your own PBL units. By applying the tips and examples in this article, you can create impactful project-based learning lesson plans across diverse subjects, fostering critical skills in your students. Embrace creativity! Consider real-world challenges and scenarios that resonate with your students and their futures beyond the classroom.
Connect with fellow educators in your school or district to share ideas and align PBL units with curriculum standards. Collaborative brainstorming with other teachers is invaluable for refining project ideas, learning from classroom experiences, and discovering helpful resources to realize your PBL goals.
Find more STEM + PBL examples and insights into effective PBL + STEM programs and lessons >>
SmartLab Learning recognizes that every student learns uniquely. Their team supports schools in implementing standards-aligned, personalized learning solutions—created by educators for educators—that cater to the individual needs of every learner through engaging, hands-on activities. Their open-ended projects offer varied challenge levels, allowing students to shape and expand learning based on their interests, abilities, and learning styles. With SmartLab Learning, the possibilities for impactful education are limitless.
