Connections Made

In my second grade class I shared a beautifully written piece of text by Nicole, an older student. The gist of the text (which was presented orally and published) was to motivate her audience and readers achieve to the best of their abilities.

We learned a song in class, ‘The World’s Greatest’ by R. Kelly, which we realized reflected most of the “IB learner profile and attitudes” traits such as being an inquirer, knowledgeable having confidence, enhancing our creativity and being committed to excellence. The students read the lyrics chorally and enjoyed the tune. I know that because they hummed the melody all day long. Humming whilst writing and lining up.

As the earlier text that was read was metaphorical, I had to explain some of the ‘special language’ to my students.

I suddenly connected all the class discussions with a book that was introduced to me by a colleague, ‘Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon.’ This book I thought could extend the students’ understanding of Nicole’s writing. A book that inspires all to appreciate who they are and to do their best regardless of how others perceive them.

The writing, lyrics and book, together emphasized the same theme. With the reiteration, the meaning of the initial writing was much clearer to my seven and eight year old students.

Text to text connections were clearly established.

Walking With G

'Put your heart, mind, and soul into even your smallest acts. This is the secret of success.' 

Quote by Swami Sivan

Day One

Fresh, excited and enthused by a new venture. My pal and I walked and chatted, we did not notice the length of our walk and over did it!

Day Two

Aching, we marched up hill, down and up again. We did well but not as well as the first day.

Day Three

We missed our walk as we had other appointments. We promised we would not miss the walk the next day. I felt really bad as I was breaking a bond, unfortunately it could not be helped.

Day Four

This was a tough walk. We walked briskly. Confident we could walk even longer, so we persevered but felt really hot and sticky, this was not the easiest day. The weather did not help. This was the day we were promised rain. We had to walk hurriedly as the storm was due. I guess our chats made the walk easier, we talked, panted and laughed whilst moving. Nothing was going to stop us. This is one venture we were going to pursue.

Our regime of walking had begun and we were going to succeed, whether rain or shine!

Gifts Are Not Always Tangible 

When I set up my blog I decided to call it Gifts. That is the word that came to me. I believe when one writes for any audience, they are presenting gifts of words.

The words we share are gifts for others. They present feelings, experiences, made up stories, ideas and more.

On my class’s library visit this week, I came across a very special book that I could connect with my Blog title:

The Gift of Nothing By Patrick McDonnell

I read the book and noted this line;

“What do you get someone who has everything?’

This question made me think and wonder about life and the possibility of people having everything they need or want.

In my opinion, people always need something, especially things for survival. When they have those, they may seek their wants.

I also believe that one of the best things we can give each other is our company and our time, which the book shares.

Another book we shared as a read aloud has circumstances that bring people together. I associated the two books with the gift of stopping and sharing our time with others. In Blackout, families come together and have fun!

The gift of togetherness is not tangible but valuable.