My students need chart paper and an easel on which to record the results of class discussions; by posting these results throughout the room, we ensure continued learning.
A typical day in my classroom consists of laughter, class discussion, and the safe sharing of ideas. I always tell my students, "You can have any opinion you want, as long as you deliver it respectfully, and you back it up with evidence." This is an important skill we develop in middle school.
Seventh and eighth graders are amazing.
They are ever-changing people who never cease to amaze me. I cherish their sense of humor, their willingness to try new things and new ideas, and their desire to make connections. We are really fortunate to learn in a small school where students and teachers can work together for years.
Students in our school have a very special opportunity to be leaders. Because we are a Pre-k to 8 building, our older children can serve as role models, mentors, guest teachers, and buddies for younger children. What a fantastic opportunity to bring out the best in kids. Children shine when given the opportunity to lead.
Our small community is very supportive of our children and we have an excellent relationship with the people in our town. The parents of our students are involved, interested, and encouraging. They are willing to work in partnership with teachers to create the best possible learning environment for children.
My Project
Picture a group of well-informed people discussing a topic, sharing ideas, and determining solutions to problems. This is not a board room, but my language arts classes. As children devour fiction and nonfiction, whether through close reading activities, teacher read-alouds, silent reading, the study of a class novel, news articles, or the enjoyment of a personally chosen book, we can discuss, dissect, and dive into the author's reasons for writing.
These effective class discussions begin and flourish with mutual respect. From the first days of school when we create our classroom rules and expectations for learning and post them around the room, to our last tearful discussion about the best ways to keep in touch after graduation. I envision this easel and chart paper to be a very important part of the learning that happens in my classroom. Students will use the easel and chart paper as a place to brainstorm and record ideas. It will become their favorite tool for learning.
I am great supporter of children taking charge of their own learning.
I believe that when a group of kids gets together on a topic, they can work magic. With tools as simple and easy as an easel and chart paper, I envision kids taking charge of their learning environment. Throughout the year, I believe we will exhaust our supply of paper as we think, plan, revise, jot, note, and solve whatever comes our way. This simple tool will provide countless opportunities for collaboration and growth.
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