"I'd like to use chance."

Chance and fairness go hand in hand. When hands shoot into the air, classmates avoid calling on the same people, or hurting someone's feelings when they say, "I'd like to use chance."

Like ancient oracle bones (sans turtle shell), a student pushes a hand into the cup, mixes a mass of sticks, then reads a single lucky (or unlucky) name. When the odds are one in twenty-three, each day brings curious mysteries when kids pull their own names, or the same name twice.

The Golden Rule

The Golden Rule, written by Ilene Cooper, kickstarts the kindness challenge, and promotes a classroom atmosphere of empathy, compassion, and cooperation. Surrounded by Gabi Swiatowska's dreamlike illustrations, a young boy's grandfather explains the universal principle with examples from Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Hinduism, Judaism, and the Shawnee tribe. 

During the read aloud, we embark on thoughtful conversations sparked by questions like, "What would the world be like if individuals and nations followed the golden rule?" The lesson ends with a contract, when everyone signs their name and commits to being mindful of others.

What's In A Name?

One of this year's first read alouds is My Name is Yoon, written by Helen Recorvits. According to Literacyhead.com, it "captures all the anxiety of a new school, new friends, and a new teacher, approaching them with 'Shining Wisdom.'"  The story fits well within culture, movement/migration, and location, three 3rd grade social studies themes.  

Inspired by the book, the first narratives of the year are all about names. They are currently on display outside the classroom, so stop by to discover the stories behind our names.