Class Project

 My 4th grade class is doing a project where they are charged with designing a better grocery bag.  We have been learning about why people improve different products and how they go about getting ideas.  The class is trying to find out people's opinion on the different types of grocery bags and the concerns they have.  Please take a moment and fill out the this google form, Grocery Bag Survey.
It will only take a few minutes.  I am posting this on my blog so that we can get a larger survey sample.  Thank you for your help with this project.  Be sure to check back and see what a class or curious minds can create!

The Power of the Puzzle

This year, my 4th grade class has been quite a challenge.  Many of the activities and innovations that I have used in the past have not been as successful as they had been.  It has been frustrating to say the least.  I began the year ready to try some new ideas while trying to think outside the box.  My plan was to continue the momentum that I had from the previous year.  This was my first mistake.  Every class is a unique entity that acts and responds differently than any other.  I have to admit that this school year, my connection to my class has not been easy.  During a conversation with a trusted colleague, I was reminded of a tool I have used in the past as a way to understand the personality and learning style of my students.  The jigsaw puzzle.

For years, I have had my students work together to complete a 250 - 500 piece jigsaw puzzle.  It may seem like an unimportant task to focus on in the classroom, but it is amazing what I can learn about my students as they attempt to complete this project.

Often my students, this year in particular,find  jigsaw puzzles an overwhelming task.
Slowing down and struggling through is difficult for many of them. I can see the trepidation in their eyes as they approach the puzzle.  Often these students spend a great deal of time simply sorting through the pieces without really accomplishing anything.  They would rather watch another student do the work while they distract him by moving puzzle pieces around the table. These are the same students who show extreme frustration when they encounter a difficult math problem or a longer writing assignment.  The student who has a difficult time organizing the puzzle pieces, and puts a few pieces together here and there are also the students who have a difficult time organizing their work and personal belongings. How a student works on the puzzle mirrors how that student relates to school work and other parts of his or her life.

Working with my students as they work through their own individual barriers in completing the puzzle allows me to help them with the skills they need in order to complete many of the academic challenges they face in school.

Now that I have dusted off the jigsaw puzzle in my class, I am thankful for the reminder to once again use this powerful tool.

Have you used jigsaw puzzles is your class?  Please share your experiences!