Term 4 Week 1

Today we focused on interpersonal skills (group work) and taking responsible risks.  We did a lot of work on how we can tell if a group is working well together - what it looks and sounds like.  We talked about some encouraging things that we could say to make others feel included in a group, and also discussed making sure that each person has a say in what the group is doing.  We need to listen to each other and ensure that each person is heard.

We did a Habits of Mind jigsaw as groups and the children reflected throughout the process -
Am I looking at my group?
Am I listening to other's ideas?
Am I encouraging my group members?
Am I using positive language?

During the Habits of Mind jigsaw activity, we learned what "Taking a responsible risk" is, and we discussed how this means that sometimes we feel uncomfortable to do something (like talk to someone or participate in a group), and there are signs to show we are uncomfortable (like looking away, avoiding a crowd etc.).  Taking a responsible risk means that we might feel uncomfortable in this situation but we persist and talk to someone/participate anyway.  After a while we don't feel uncomfortable any more.

We played some games to help the children persist past the 'not wanting to participate' stage and we also learned how to encourage someone who is obviously nervous/shy.

We finished off with another technology challenge - all teams failed miserably at the challenge, but succeeded beautifully in all actively participating in the group work.  Well done kids!