Begin with the end in mind.
To start the year off right, we have come up with the agreements we will live and learn by. We looked at a series of Flickr images and then brainstormed possible messages they could represent about positive classroom relationships and a healthy learning environment.
For example, for this peacock image students wrote:
We agree to
– be original and stand out
– accept each other’s beauty
– show pride but not boast
– show our colours
– be ourselves, but not show off
– be colourful and bright, and be the best we can be
– be proud of ourselves for who we are and show our true colours as an individual and in a group
– be the best we can be
All great ideas! These phrases were merged into one statement: “We agree to be our unique selves and accept each other’s beauty.”
The process took time, but look what we achieved:
(If you can’t see the slides, click here.)
These agreements will be the foundation of respectful relationships and productive learning experiences this year. And I hope it is just the beginning of our work with digital images, technology, and collaboration.
Let us know what you think.
(All image credits on slide 12)
So, Division 16, take another look through our agreements. Which one is especially important to you, and why? What did we miss–is there something you think we should include? What sort of image would best represent your ideas about living and learning together?