Because they are starting to feel comfortable with one another, each class devised a set of "shared agreements," which function alongside regular classroom rules. The process we used to create these agreements involved a discussion about what the students and the group need to create a safe, respectful, productive, learning community. As a group, we brainstormed a list of specific behaviors and then physically agreed to each item by giving a thumbs up. If a student disagreed with something, we took the time to talk about the item and come to a compromise.
This idea came from a book I borrowed from the YESS office, The 5 Dimensions of Engaged Teaching: A Practical Guide for Educators, written by Laura Weaver and Mark Wilding. I highly recommend it!
In addition to creating these lists, the students voted on a design for the YESS class shirts and researched charities we might work with to complete our service learning project.
Behind the scenes, I've been working with the guidance counselors and administrators to come up with a list of mentees. So far, I have been given 45 names and I'll be meeting these students regarding the opportunity to join YESS.
Next week, we will generate action plans and begin to implement the kids' ideas to address hunger in our community. We'll also be diving into some of the students' fears about becoming mentors and practicing strategies to overcome their anxieties.
No comments:
Post a Comment