Respect
This month’s character trait at my school is: Respect. Teachers are asked to discuss the trait in class throughout the month, encourage students to display that trait in their everyday lives as well as show some themed video clips here and there. My students know the word respect and were able to provide lots of examples of how to show respect. They struggle on “WHY” to show respect, so we are spending the remainder of the month discussing why people should be kind to each other, treat each other fairly, etc.
Today we showed two video clips:
The first one had a catchy tune and by the end of the clip the students were singing along. The second video clip had the kids up and moving because of the “cool” beat. This video caught my attention because it was made at school by a teacher and his students. The rap was written on the theme of “Respect,” showcased students in their school environment, highlighted several students, and the most important part (to me!) was that the lyrics were clean and meaningful. My students did not realize that with You Tube you can create an account and upload your own videos. When I explained the “behind the scenes” of how the video clip was made the students’ eyes were as wide as meatballs. That motivated them to think of catchy tunes to help us learn in the classroom.
Stay tuned.. who knows, maybe we will be on You Tube soon!
In the meantime, if you are a teacher I highly recommend showing this to your class for not only the character building message but the amazing talent of students just like them. If you are a parent, viewing these video clips together as a family could be a powerful experience, especially if planning to show more respect at home as well as to neighbors and friends.
Respect is such a broad topic and can be displayed in a variety of ways. Opening students’ eyes to all of the possibilities of being respectful can positively change your classroom climate.
If you viewed the video clips, what are your thoughts?
How can we best teach children the values that were instilled in us as children?
About the author, Gretchen
I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.
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