Remote teaching and learning for young children is not ideal, but it's what we have right now and we're making the best of it. The areas that are working include lots of personal, small group, and whole class coaching. We're working with families to help students meet standards-based learning goals in a number of meaningful ways.
Math Standards and Problem Solving
With a focus on math talk, reasoning, and problem solving, students are learning the standards that remain for the grade level. About 85% of students are regularly taking part in the online practice exercises and virtual small group math meetings. We're reaching out to the remaining 15% in a large number of positive ways to help them access the lessons and get more involved. We understand that some families are facing greater challenge than others during this time for all kinds of reasons.
Global Changemakers Project
It's an all hands on deck strategy to coach a number of small groups to complete this interdisciplinary project that includes independent reading, research, writing, and composition as well as small group meetings and a final digital project. This is a grade-level signature project that we've engaged in for years. Remote learning has created all kinds of project development to assist students' online research and project completion.
Homeroom Meetings
Each homeroom has a weekly meeting to touch base and share learning. This week's meetings will focus on the fifth grade play.
Fifth Grade Play
This has morphed into a virtual performance that will become a movie that includes a wide range of student talents and interests. The final product will entertain the entire school community.
Global Cardboard Challenge
The June focus will be the Global Cardboard Challenge with a focus on STEAM teaching and creativity.
Science and Social Studies
Via mainly videos and hands-on learning activities, students will explore science and social studies standards with family members as time permits.
Reading, Writing, and Creativity
Students are encouraged to keep up their reading, take part in a grade-level read aloud, and learn and share what interests them in a number of ways.
While not ideal, we'll stay the course through the next few weeks to help students meet the grade-level expectations and be ready for the Middle School years ahead. Onward.
