WHY DO FIRST GRADERS FALL OFF THEIR CHAIRS? PURPOSEFUL LEARNING IN THE PRIMARY CLASSROOM

INSTRUCTOR(S): Jane Maki, Osceola School District
GRADE LEVEL: PK-3
CREDIT: 1, 2 or 3
 

Best practice in the primary classroom involves creating an environment that suits young learners.  Participants of this workshop will identify the characteristics of 4 to 8 year old learners and investigate ways to integrate, through teaching and instruction, best practice, research based strategies responsive to the needs of their students.  this class will explore:

• Morning meetings and building community

• Instruction in a constructivist classroom

• Learning styles and how they can be addressed in the primary classroom through differentiated instruction

• Questioning and Critical Thinking

• Connecting brain development theory to student learning and the classroom environment

• Graphic Organizers and Bookmaking

• Reflection and Assessment tools, appropriate to young learners

The academy learning environment will provide participants the opportunity to dialogue in large and small groups as well experience hands-on activities to further their own understanding.  The goal will be for each community member to connect and apply these purposeful experiences into their own professional practice and strengthen their beliefs in what is essential in the education of young learners.