Project Based Learning & HyperDocs

Within my 5th grade technology class, we're working through a project based learning opportunity by designing our own tiny home. I start the project by uploading a HyperDoc to our Google Classroom so each student has a copy.

 A HyperDoc, in this instance, is a Google Doc where students have access to links to helpful websites and can work at their own pace. You can read more about HyperDocs from Jennifer Gonzalez's blog, Cult of Pedagogy.

 I built the HyperDoc so the students are following the engineering process as they work through the project. Each step within the HyperDoc is a step in the engineering process (Ask, Imagine, Plan, Create, Improve). To be honest, my HyperDoc isn't the best looking. My students informed me it's difficult to read and follow, so I'll be changing it for next year to be color coded with a better layout.
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During the creation step of their tiny homes, my 5th graders used the following tools :

2D floorplan: LucidCharts (one of the many Google Apps)
     -under templates, choose floorplans

3D model: Planner 5D
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After using a HyperDoc for this particular project based learning opportunity, I've found it be largely beneficial for students for the following reasons:

1) Student empowerment --  they can work at their pace with plenty of personal choice to make during the process.
2) Feedback Opportunities -- with the HyperDoc living on our Google Classroom, I can leave comments on students work throughout the project. I find it keeps them engaged while allowing me easy ways to check their work.
3) Changing Instruction -- when students need certain instructions or more information, I can add links to articles and videos to help them along the way. It frees me up to move around the classroom for more 1-1 instruction with students.

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I have my entire 9 day lesson plans (with differentiation, assessments, exit tickets, etc.) on Teachers Pay Teachers