An important part of a classroom is feeling a sense of belonging and community. Each day starts with a talking circle so that we can build respect, responsibility and relationships in our classroom. Talking circles come are born out of indigenous teachings. Everyone has their turn to speak, but when we aren’t holding the taking piece, we need to listen respectfully to what the speaker is saying. Talking circles allow us to get to know each other, ourselves and where we belong. And it a classroom, that’s important.
We also spent time brainstorming what we value and we need in a classroom. We generated lots of excellent ideas that we shared as a group and we worked collaboratively to determine which were most important to us. We have common themes in the needs and values that we chose – respect, inclusivity, self-regulation and kindness – that will allow us to be our best selves. Our poster that we all signed will be on display in our classroom in case we need reminders :)
Criteria:
- Develop ideas using supporting details
- Organize ideas into paragraphs
- Include an engaging sense of voice