Project-Based Course Proposal Template

More and more schools are embracing project-based learning as a way to deepen student engagement and connect academics to real-world challenges. However, developing this type of curriculum can be complex and time-consuming for teachers. To help simplify the process, Dr. Leticia Archuleta, Executive Director of Health Leadership High School, has shared a Project-Based Course Proposal Template that provides a clear structure for designing and documenting high-quality, hands-on learning experiences.

This resource supports educators in transforming traditional lessons into projects that promote critical thinking, collaboration, and community connection in line with your organization’s mission.

How to Use the Template

The Project-Based Course Proposal Template is designed to help educators outline a complete, standards-aligned course that centers on inquiry, collaboration, and wellness. Each section guides you through planning, teaching, and showcasing meaningful student work.

Project Overview

Start by entering the foundational details: Project Title, Instructor Name, Semester, Credits Offered, and any relevant Resources.

This opening section sets the context for your course and gives reviewers a clear understanding of the project’s scope and purpose.

Ignite Curiosity

This section helps you identify the “why” behind your project.

Use the Prethinking prompts to define the big ideas or core concepts students will explore. Ask yourself: What central theme or question will capture students’ interest and spark inquiry?

Strong projects begin with a driving question that connects academic content to real-world relevance.

Explore and Discover

Describe how students will build foundational knowledge and develop essential skills.

This is where you outline the learning activities, lessons, and instructional supports that allow students to explore the driving question. Include opportunities for collaboration, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.

The goal is for students to move from initial curiosity toward deeper understanding through purposeful investigation.

Organizational or Thematic Lens

Every project-based school has a central theme or mission that shapes how learning connects to the real world. This section is where you align your project with that broader purpose.

Describe how your course reflects your school’s focus, whether that is health and wellness, environmental sustainability, leadership, entrepreneurship, social justice, or another guiding theme. Explain how students will make meaningful connections between the project content and the values or goals that define your school community.

Consider both local and global implications of your project’s theme and how it helps students understand their role in creating positive change.

Driving Question and Readiness for Life

Craft a driving question that captures the essence of your project and challenges students to think critically. It should be open-ended, meaningful, and aligned with your learning goals.

Then, explain how the project supports students’ readiness for life after high school. This might include skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, or civic engagement.

Reflect and Create

Use this section to identify Long-Term Learning Targets—three to five key skills or understandings students will gain through the project.

Next, list the state standards that align with these outcomes.

Finally, describe how students will apply what they have learned through design, experimentation, and reflection, supported by teacher feedback and expert insight.

Celebrations of Learning / Exhibitions

Outline how students will share and celebrate their work.

Will they host a public exhibition, record a digital presentation, or create a portfolio?

Use the Evidence and Assessment section to identify the performance tasks that demonstrate mastery. Include both formative assessments (used during instruction) and summative assessments (used at the end of the project).

This phase highlights student growth and gives them an authentic audience for their learning.

Supporting All Learners

In this section, describe the scaffolding strategies you will use to meet the needs of all students, including those with IEPs, 504s, and English language learning needs.

Reflect on how your project will be culturally and linguistically responsive, ensuring every student has access to meaningful participation and success.

Community Partners

List any organizations, professionals, or mentors who will support your project.

Community partnerships add authenticity and connect classroom learning to real-world experience. Consider inviting local experts, nonprofit leaders, or industry professionals who can contribute insights or feedback.

Certifications Attached to the Project

Identify any certifications or credentials students may earn as part of the project.

Examples include CPR, HIPAA, FERPA, or Narcan training.

Including certifications helps students see the real-world application of their learning and builds tangible skills for future education or employment.

Putting It All Into Practice

Once you complete the Project-Based Course Proposal Template, you will have a clear and well-structured plan for a project that integrates academic learning with wellness, equity, and community engagement.

Share your proposal with your team, gather feedback, and refine it as your course evolves. Over time, this tool can serve as a foundation for developing a strong portfolio of project-based learning experiences across your school.

Template created by Dr. Leticia Archuleta, Executive Director of Health Leadership High School

Podcast episode: Removing Barriers, Building Futures