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Notes from North Family of Schools PLC Wednesday November 25th.

What strategies have you found to be most effective in reaching a reluctant learner?

Responses: Bribery; opportunities to talk and listen; Calling home; Building trust and relationships; Smart Learning Strategies: using different techniques to show what you know; Chunking information; Choice and ownership in their activities; Providing  Exemplars and marking rubric; Coaching cards; Patience / space; IEP’s; Knowledge of students circumstances; Assessment as / for Learning; Failure is OK; Building resilience; Differentiation of Instruction; Peer tutors; Sense of humour; Recognition for small steps; Entertaining / performing; structure / routine; subjects of interest; Find the success; Breaking down tasks; Connections to their own lives; Share information about yourself-talents/interests; Addressing different learning styles; One-on-one; Showing you care.

What are some the characteristics of a successful student leaving elementary school and entering grade 8?

Responses: Independent; Confident; Self-Starter; Motivated; Positive self image; Numeracy, literacy, study skills; Social skills; Self-discipline; Home support; Accountability; Organized; Good sense of humour; How to work a combo lock; Peer support; Sports; Good diet; Wiling to try something new-risk taking; A good backpack; Mentor / older student; Feel good about themselves and who they are; skills to meet curriculum; Have a good work ethic; Use class time wisely; As parents we hate homework & we’re good parents.

How can we facilitate the successful transition for students from grade to grade and school to school?

Responses: Clearly identify the minimum learning outcomes to be successful at the next level; More support; Earlier intervention; Accountability on student part; Sharing of expectations from grade to grade school to school; Sharing assessment folders; more visits between elementary and secondary schools; more family involvement at secondary schools; Use more core strategies, i.e.: Barrie Bennett; Common language; More opportunities to dialogue between schools; Big brothers and Big sisters; First day is grade 8 only; Grade 7 teachers and secondary teachers trade for a day and teach each other’s class.

    Crofton Elementary                Chemainus Secondary             Chemainus Elementary