As you know, we’ve been working on team challenges in our ETC class. We have a lot of goals for this class, but our highest priority (for first quarter) is to learn how to work as a team. We’ve been waiting for the conflict to begin, and today it did– don’t worry, this is a good thing, we promise! 

The groups worked together on the Umbrella Challenge – can you keep a Duplo man dry for ten seconds by creating an umbrella using only the provided materials. The kids planned individually and then as groups. Today was the first challenge where students wholeheartedly disagreed on design. As adults, we know how tough this can be. You think you have an amazing idea, you bring it to your group and they shut you down. Imagine being 10 or 11 and trying to navigate these feelings. Not only as the person being shut down, but also as the message delivery person. How do you compromise without insulting someone else? How do you take feedback without being defensive? How do you make sure your voice is heard when others are taking charge? These are such important skills to develop NOW as they will be so important throughout all of life. 

We didn’t plan for this to happen, but we knew it would–  And we love it! On Friday we will tackle our next challenge with a new lens. One that is guided by a teamwork rubric- an opportunity to self assess how we are doing while working in groups. We can’t wait to share how it unfolds!

Fifth and Sixth graders have started to brainstorm ideas for our fourth quarter ETC class, invention convention. We kicked off class by watching a video about a 14 year old boy who invented waste-less shampoo – the kids were intrigued and excited to start thinking about their own inventions. 

Instead of immediately jumping to invention ideas, we asked the kids to start thinking about problems that need to be solved. These problems could be big or small– my towel falls off every morning, or earth decomposing because of an intense amount of waste. 

The room was quiet at first and then buzzing with excitement as the class was eager to share what they had come up with. 

The entire process will be documented in an Invention Convention journal where students will be required to document daily work, reflect upon their progress and brainstorm ideas on how to move forward. This will also be an opportunity for students to practice time management as they have a very specific calendar they must stick to! 

I look forward to sharing updates with you here. The kids will blog about their progress every other week or so. In the meantime, please ask your child what he/she has been working on!