All Modules 13-Animal Kingdom - Module 4 | Page 5

5 In conclusion, this theme serves as a jump start to learn about: Animals, habitats, cultures, countries, communication, values, cycles and patterns, explore nature, connect with nature, become sensitive to others, and much more. Communication Letter for Educators Dear Educators: As presented in Modules 3 & 4, this month we will be working on the theme Animal Kingdom. In these Modules you will find different ideas and specific projects you could use in your classroom to introduce the theme. Make sure you plan ahead so you have in hand the materials and resources you will need for each activity. Always remember that the focus is not in the content; on the contrary, you should focus on developing the different habits of mind. As a suggestion, every time you set up a documentation invite the parents in and share with them their child´s accomplishments. Many times parents tend to take for granted their child´s work. They see a documentation about an artist and mistakenly thinks “Great, my boy/girl painted!” As teachers we all know that is not absolutely true. Far more than just painting, our students developed skills such as connecting, wondering, considering perspectives, expressing, synthesizing, and much more. Even though, it may take an extra ten minutes, try to make a note next to the documentation you set up, and share with the parents the different objectives you accomplished and the habits of mind the children are developing through those projects. As always, remember these modules are just a jump start to create more meaningful activities. Just as your students, take a risk and have fun! Good luck!