Every year I love to finish off Kindergarten with individual research projects. This year is no different. We have spent a great deal of time 'wondering' this year and I figured it would be appropriate to the the Kiddoes 'wonder' about whatever it is that interests them. Today, I introduced the concept of a graphic organizer as a way to help good writers begin the writing/research process. I compared it a dresser in a bedroom. After a brief discussion about how we don't leave all our clothes on the floor (I am sure this does happen!!!), and why we use a dresser to help us organize and find specific clothes, the Kiddoes readily grasped the concept of why to use a graphic organizer for ideas. As one Kiddoe pointed out, "My ideas are like ping pong balls in my brain and they move around too fast to remember!" We did an example together so the Kiddoes could see how this process works.
Once finished, I tasked the Kiddoes to come up with three ideas they would like to explore/learn more about. I was astonished yet again by the perseverance and engagement this style of learning holds for the Kiddoes. They were writing/drawing independently because it was of their own choosing. Our next step will be to decide which topic they would specifically like to explore and then create three wonder research questions. Mrs. Towes Grade 7 class is going to help us with this task and then help the Kiddoes with their research. If you check out your child's portfolio, you can see what he/she is wondering about!!!
Stay tuned!
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