One of our mantras this year is that we are "Wild learners;" inspired by author Donalyn Miller. Wild learners are authentic, interested, and avid seekers of knowledge who work hard and know themselves well. In the first weeks of school I demonstrate different tools to kids and guide them as they try them on for size. Once they get to know themselves, they are able to "Set Up" for successful learning quickly.
When I think about my myself as a learner and worker, I'm constantly doing small things to make myself "comfortable" and ready to take on different tasks. For example, when I write on this site, I definitely "set up." I'm currently sitting at my dining table. I'm wrapped in a blanket, have music playing, a candle lit, sticky notes, my favorite blue pen, cold sparkling water, hot ginger tea, and just got up to put socks on because my feet are cold. All of this helps me to stay focused as a learner! Joe is upstairs in a quiet room, at a desk; that's it. We all must try out different tools to get comfortable and "set up" for learning.
I've created many learning spaces in my classroom and collected a variety of cool tools: carpets, stools, weighted medicine balls, textured stompers, short tables, tall tables, alongside regular desks and chairs! Students are beginning to discover their styles of learning and setting up quickly for learning.
Check out the action shots below:
When I think about my myself as a learner and worker, I'm constantly doing small things to make myself "comfortable" and ready to take on different tasks. For example, when I write on this site, I definitely "set up." I'm currently sitting at my dining table. I'm wrapped in a blanket, have music playing, a candle lit, sticky notes, my favorite blue pen, cold sparkling water, hot ginger tea, and just got up to put socks on because my feet are cold. All of this helps me to stay focused as a learner! Joe is upstairs in a quiet room, at a desk; that's it. We all must try out different tools to get comfortable and "set up" for learning.
I've created many learning spaces in my classroom and collected a variety of cool tools: carpets, stools, weighted medicine balls, textured stompers, short tables, tall tables, alongside regular desks and chairs! Students are beginning to discover their styles of learning and setting up quickly for learning.
Check out the action shots below:
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