Reading Reflection #10

1.       Discussion on the importance of setting aside time for reflection

Setting aside time for reflection is important for many reasons. First, reflection gives the students the opportunity to feel good about their accomplishments. They are able to look back at their work and either write or talk about the successes, failures, and challenges. Second, reflection also helps aid in processing and making the material learned stick. Third, reflection helps students reveal things they may not have thought about before; for example, how was the project important to you, what did you learn, how did you grow, etc.

2.       Discussion on the reason students need to reflect and elaborate.

As mentioned above, reflection is an important part of the learning process for many reasons. Asking students to reflect and to be elaborate can lead to further explorations, more learning experiences, and more knowledge gained. Reflecting and having students elaborate during reflection gives the students an opportunity to express their curiosity further. Students may still have unanswered questions or new topics they want to explore after a project is finished.

3.       Discussion on how schools build tradition and identity.

A school’s identity normally reflects that of the school’s traditions. Traditions within the school exemplify an expectation for excellence. It is important to involve the school and community in establishing a tradition and identity. The text states “when families, the community, and students coming up through the grades know what you are up to, you have a foundation for tradition” (pg. 150). Students who participate in a tradition feel privileged and show that through their hard work.

4.       Discussion on the importance of celebrating a project.

It’s important after a project is finished to show off the students’ hard work. Displaying the students’ work gives the students a sense of accomplishment and pride, as well as an opportunity to share their work with the school and the community. Putting on an event, creating a blog, or holding a party is some ways in which a teacher could celebrate a project.

5.       Discussion on the concepts in this chapter relate to your topic/project.

Our group agrees that it is important to celebrate a project and to show off the students’ hard work. The students in our 5^th grade class will be putting together a workout video that they will share with friends and families at the end of the unit.