We are coming to the end of our Unit under the theme ‘How We Express Ourselves.’ Our Central Idea is ‘ Ideas are shared through stories and tales.’
Our lines of inquiry included finding out why we tell stories, what is their purpose, sharing stories and knowing what makes a good story. We found out about story elements- setting, character, problem, solution so we could recognise this structure and that helped us to start writing our own stories. We read stories from different countries to compare and contrast our cultures with others, recognising similarities and differences. We read traditional tales and fairy tales to help us retell and act out as these are often well- known stories. We heard stories in different languages too and this helped us appreciate the value of great illustrations!
Students really enjoyed sharing their own stories with their friends and we had a Reader’s Workshop this week. The students have become better listeners and use their communication skills and knowledge of stories to give their friends both positive and constructive feedback!
Guided reading in groups has really developed in the past weeks and many of the students can read by themselves in their group. They remember to start together, follow the words as they read with their finger and sound out difficult words. Some groups talk about the pictures, try to find words or ask each other questions. This has been a valuable activity for improving social, communication and spoken skills as well as reading!
We did quite a challenging reflection about their learning and students were very committed to showing how they had become communicators, risk- takers and improved their thinking skills during this Unit. As a teacher, we are very happy to see measurable progress but it is also important that students develop the skill to reflect on their own development so that they can take ownership of their learning.
I wish all families a wonderful and enjoyable Eid!