In our Kindergarten Program, we try to encourage the students' interests and support their learning through their natural curiosity, play, and inquiry. Fortunately, Mme Noftall is very skilled at this approach, as she is great at supporting student-centered learning (which can also be called "emergent curriculum"). Some days we have something in mind (a plan of what we would like to do with the class), but then an experience or discovery sparks the students' interests and the learning takes another directions. Here are few recent examples of these types of experiences: Recently, Mme Noftall and a group of students went to look at our bird feeders to see if we needed to add feed. Seeing the feeder led to discussions about birds' nests, which then led to the building of nests. Given that so many trees have lost their leaves, we've been enjoying looking for squirrel and bird nests in the surrounding woods. Did you know that squirrel nests are called dreys? You might see if your child can tell you anything about squirrel homes. We are hoping that some students will be interested in continuing this investigation as we have found bird nests which we have not yet identified! Last week, we went down by the river to play a game and read a book about squirrels. We then heard a loud noise and went to investigate. It turns out that the dam was being opened, which led to a number of great questions and observations! One of the students brought in a Chirp magazine and was eager to create a 3-D landscape from the magazine. He brought in some materials from home and we provided other materials. His enthusiasm was contagious and soon a number of students were working collaboratively on this project, talking and problem solving together. As much as we would like to follow all of the students' interests and initiatives, this simply isn't possible. In order to give every student the chance to "shine", we are beginning to have an "Étoile de la semaine" (star of the week). When the students are the "Étoile de la semaine", we are asking that they create and share a poster about themselves and their interests (the poster and an information letter will be sent home the week before each child is the "Étoile", some time between now and June). The class will also talk about that child's gifts and talents, and we'll make a book to celebrate their strengths. During that week, we will also try to support any special projects or activities the "Étoile" would like to do in class. The children are not limited to just sharing their suggestions and interests during their special week; we are just hoping that this will let every child's voice be heard over the course of the year. |
1 Comment
Kevin Sutton
11/21/2016 11:16:28 am
This is so lovely!
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