In last week’s blog I talked about how the ‘Honeymoon is Over’ and how tired the students are getting. We now start to enter into what I like to call the deep learning stage. If we were to look at the college term as a roller coaster ride (as our project is about this topic) the start of the ride/term is when it is about to take off. You are sitting there, nervous, scared or even excited about what lies ahead. Then as it takes off and you head out onto the ride, the thrill begins and you find yourself on a whirlwind ride heading through corners, loops, camel humps and batwings. Lastly, you find yourself slowing down and coming to a stop as the ride/term begins to finish.
Currently we are on the ride stage of the term. We encounter some of the parts of the roller coaster we enjoy and perhaps even some of the parts we don’t enjoy. It is how we get through these parts that makes us better people.
In stage 3 we are really trying to get the students to think for themselves (yes, mentioned before) and part of this is our team contracts. At the start of each project the students have signed a contract between members of their group. The contract includes four set points – respect, working to the best of one’s ability, working on time and asking for help. Groups also have the option to add anything to this contract relevant to them.
How does this work in the classroom setting, I can hear you asking. Well let me explain. (True story) Yesterday Child A had a problem with Child B not really doing their work. Child A called a team meeting to discuss their concerns regarding Child B. The team got together with their contract and talked through their points, in particular the one that states,”We all promise to do our work the best we can.” Each student had an opportunity to talk. Once the meeting was over they all went back to their tasks and the problem was solved in an orderly and positive manner. This type of conflict resolution is so important for the children to learn.
Tip of the week: Ask your child – What is the driving question you are working towards at the moment?
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