Revel Recap: Sept. 9 - 13, 2024
Spark Studio
Mindfulness and Launch
Monday's Launch focused on each Spark's Hero's Journey. We began by exploring their roles as heroes in an exciting quest. Like the brave characters in their favourite stories, the Rebels are setting off on an adventure filled with new friendships, discoveries, and challenges. We discussed why heroes often have friends or helpers, considering whether they provide encouragement or guidance when needed. We also reflected on how friends have supported them in their own lives. We read the story What Should Danny Do? to develop a stronger connection. This story greatly illustrates the responsibility and the impact of their choices. On Tuesday, the Sparks started their day with some mindful colouring. Many of our artists chose to draw their own artwork to colour. Afterward, we met at circle and looked at our "I Heard Your Feelings" Conversation Cards. Each card shows an emotional situation and has questions to prompt further discussion. On Wednesday, we read the book How Full is Your Bucket. This story revolves around a young child who learns about bucket-filling through interactions with friends, family, and classmates. By demonstrating the effects of both bucket-filling and bucket-dipping, the book encourages the Sparks to adopt a mindset of kindness and empathy in their daily lives. They then completed a graphic organizer with ways others may deplete or fill their bucket. To embrace gratitude on Thankful Thursday, we started by sharing three things we are grateful for, followed by an exciting Gratitude scavenger hunt. The Sparks were given three scenarios to explore: finding an item that makes learning fun, something that reminds them of friendships made this week, and their favourite book in the studio. After gathering their treasures, they shared these meaningful objects with the group, sparking thoughtful conversations. On Friday, we enjoyed a peaceful morning of mindfulness at The Woodward. The Sparks took time to reflect, writing in their journals while enjoying a delicious donut. These moments spent together in our community strengthen relationships and build a deep sense of belonging. By connecting with those around them and appreciating the environment, the Sparks continue to feel more grounded and aware of the special connections within our school community.
Math Lab
For this session, we will have two groups for Math Lab. This week, Group 1 was introduced to the counting chains. This Montessori material helps the Rebels to practice skip counting, which is excellent preparation for later multiplication activities. As a group, we completed counting chains 3 (pink) and 4 (yellow), learned about the counting chains, and completed chains 3 and 4 together. Meanwhile, Group Two reviewed the numbers 0-9 using the Sandpaper Numbers. The learners could visually see the number and trace it with their fingers, which is great tactile practice in preparation for writing these numbers. Each learner then used math linking cubes to show the associated quantities of each number. To end the lesson, each Spark practiced writing numbers 0-9 on their whiteboards.
French
This week in French, we continued to play a picture game called Seek-a-Boo. We're learning new French vocabulary with the help of pictures, and then the pictures are scattered around the gym. The Rebels then have to find the ones requested by Mme. Marianne.
Quest
This week, we focused on continuing to build a sense of community and connection in our studio by exploring families, traditions, and friendships. We kicked off with an insightful discussion about how every individual comes from a different household. Some learners have siblings, grandparents, stepparents, or extended family members. We read All Kinds of Families by Suzanne Lang to explore this concept further. The learners were then asked, "What is a family?" Their thoughtful responses included ideas like people who make you feel safe, people who love and care for you, and those who show kindness. Using modelling clay, each learner created their family, and these creative masterpieces will be featured in a collaborative book they are contributing to daily.
On Tuesday, we learned about family traditions. Many of the Sparks shared their family customs, such as celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah, birthdays, baking cookies for special occasions, attending church, and having Easter egg hunts. They added to their book by drawing three traditions and writing about them.
On Wednesday, we followed a directed drawing of a family table and shared the meals we enjoy with our families. The Sparks added their favourite foods, desserts, and drinks, and we discussed traditional meals that families might have for special events.
Thursday's focus was all about friendship. We read The Little Spot Makes Friends, which helped the Sparks learn about qualities like kindness, empathy, sharing, and cooperation. The story also highlighted the importance of active listening and communication in building lasting relationships. After the story, the Sparks used art materials to create their own "Little Spot" characters and wrote down what being a good friend means to them.
To wrap up the week, Friday was all about friendship bracelets! Each learner made a bracelet and took turns picking from the finished pile. Some learners even took the extra time to make additional bracelets for their friends or family members, showing how deeply they value the relationships they've formed!
Art
Kindness is a big part of a Spark's journey at Revel. Together, we read the story The Kindness Quilt. This story inspired the learners and guides to create a kindness quilt of their own. In so doing, they began to reflect on how their lives are fullof acts of kindness and that giving and receiving kindness makes life truly special. Each learner wrote six squares of what kindness is to them. Together, they designed a quilt using their decorative squares to place on a bristol board for display.
Geography
The Sparks took a fun journey around the world as we focused on learning about the continents! We started the session by singing loud and proud to the Continent Song, which got everyone excited and ready to learn. Afterward, we reviewed three of the seven continents: North America, South America, and Antarctica. To make learning hands-on and engaging, the Sparks split into four groups, where they worked together to trace the continents and carefully place them in their correct spots on a world map. Of course, no map is complete without the oceans, so they made sure to add those in with many shades of blue!
Additional Highlights
This week, everyone enjoyed some extra special activities in the studio that brought a lot of fun and excitement to our days! We started with a lively dance party with colourful lights, and the learners requested their favourite songs. The Sparks played various energetic games in the gym, helping the learners stay active while working together and practicing their skills. We also spent time outdoors in the field, enjoying the fresh air while playing classic games that had everyone laughing. For this week's Show and Tell, the theme was "Bring a board game your family enjoys playing." The Sparks each brought in their favourite games from home, shared them with others, and spent time playing together. It was wonderful to see them teaching each other and sharing family traditions. Overall, it was an unforgettable week filled with movement, teamwork, and joy.
To conclude, we encourage the families to complete the Let Grow program, allowing learners to choose a project to complete at home each month to increase their independence, confidence, and leadership. The guides can't wait to hear about the projects their Sparks are working on.
Discovery Studio
Mindfulness and Launch
For Mandala Monday, Rebels tried a colour-by-numbers activity based on details about them! For example, colour all the number 3s in red if your first name starts with A-G. Some Rebels enjoyed colouring to the instrumental playlist, while others tried to follow all the number prompts. Monday's Launch focused on our first short-term SMART goal-setting challenge for Core Skills as we officially started tracking our progress on each application and workbook that learners are working on to achieve Fun Friday at the end of the week. Rebels will utilize their Goal Trackers each day this session to figure out their "just right" benchmarks. Mentor meetings also began this week, with learners meeting with their guide to discuss short- and long-term goals and adjust where needed to ensure they work within their Challenge Zone each week. On Tuesday's mindful walk, the Rebels paired up to discover things they had in common. Some Rebels went deep into all things Harry Potter, and others found that they liked the swings or playing different sports. Last week in Launch, we talked about two outstanding athletes, Brooke Raboutou and Sheetal Devi. Tuesday at Launch, we used them as examples of how we each have our own "Joy Recipe." Ms. Amy shared that in the book The Power of Fun: How to Feel Alive Again by Catherine Price, Catherine discusses that in order to have "True Fun" or Joy, there has to be three elements: Connection, Playfulness and Flow. The Rebels suggested that Brooke feels joy when she is rock climbing, supported by her coach/mom, and feels the achievement of reaching the top of the mountain. The Rebels suggested that Sheetal feels joy when she achieves, sees a target and plays with creating a bow that works for her. Ms. Amy discussed how she feels joy in nature, exploring new places with her family, and taking pictures. The Rebels were encouraged to look at the photos they used for their Hero Boards and reflect on how they felt joy. Some Rebels shared that they feel joy with their animals, playing hockey, going on adventures, and getting new toys. Wonder Wednesday brought Wordle success and a challenging Mini crossword from the New York Times. Did you know that it was the New York World newspaper that first published a crossword? Our first "Squad Chickens" meeting was the focus of our Launch on Wednesday. Rebels broke off into teams of four and shared what they had accomplished so far in Core Skills this week. Rebels checked each other's Goal Sheets to ensure teammates were filling things out correctly, could access their Core Skill applications and shared the goals they had completed versus ones they were aiming to finish over the second half of the week. We will have weekly "Chickens" meetings so that Rebels can lean on each other and get used to bringing their questions and concerns to each other rather than immediately leaning on their Guides. On Thursday, we headed outside for our Mindfulness Walk, and the Rebels were asked to use their senses to find signs of fall. We ended the walk by chatting about the signs of autumn they noticed and a collection of beautiful leaves. We also observed that in the Carlington Community Garden there is a tree bearing tiny berries, but we figured out it was a pear tree using Google Images! Friday, we practiced our scales and chords on the Boomwhackers and attended another fabulous Current Events report!
Math Lab
Welcome Rebels to our Thinking Lab! To begin, we reviewed the Math Lab protocol for the year: we stand while working at vertical dry-erase boards in randomly selected groups of 2-3 and have to share one marker. Rebels must take turns with the marker so that each team member contributes to capturing their team's thinking for the weekly problems. On Monday this week, Aim/Release Rebels tackled the Coloured Boxes problem! They were given a series of clues about the colour and location of shapes in relation to one another. Working through six puzzle levels, Rebels then tried to make their own set of clues for another team to solve.
During Wednesday's Draw/Anchor Math Lab, Rebels worked with the letters in their names to create expressions of "how many?" Some teams drew parts diagrams, while others wrote addition equations. After warming up, we tackled the Ice Cream Scoops problem. Through this story problem, teams worked together to think through equal sharing situations and eventually arrived at rule-making for doubling and tripling scenarios. It was so cool to see all the ways the teams worked together to represent these early rules of divisibility!
Reader/Writer
Draw and Anchor Rebels kicked off their second workshop with a discussion on the word of the week: Manifest. What does it mean to "manifest" something? We looked over the official definition of manifest, and Rebels discussed why writing a wish or dream down might be more effective when trying to achieve something long-term. Rebels began their first writing assignment as we co-created a Word Wall full of goals and dreams for different areas of their lives. Personal, family and friendship goals were completed this week, and as we move into our next workshop, we'll aim to take note of short and long-term academic goals at Revel as well as health goals before starting our "Letter to My Session 7 Self" first draft.
Aim/Release Rebels also discussed the concept of manifestation and looked at two world-class examples from singer/songwriter Post Malone and rookie Olympian Jaida Ross. Both manifested their future accomplishments by writing down/putting their dream into the universe by either writing a letter or posting their dream on a public platform. Does writing things down or making your dreams known to others allow you to be held more accountable for accomplishing them? Rebels spent the rest of their workshop working independently on goal-setting vision boards, writing out 3-5 goals for different aspects of their lives: Health, Personal, Family, Friendships, Revel Smart Goals and Revel Goals (General). Next week, Rebels will start drafting the first copies of their letters.
Civilizations
It was a world of empires! This week, Rebels listened to the story of King Charles, his son King Philip and his brother King Ferdinand. What was life like around this time? In the words of the Rebels, you might say Charles doubled-crossed the "German Fury" and the pope to become the Holy Roman Emperor. Confused? You're right; the Roman Empire had long since passed! But Charles wanted more than just power over certain countries and coveted this title, which was first given to Charlemagne. Our story also included expeditions to India, but the travellers ended up in South America instead. As it turned out, thousands of people grew rich by sailing to South America, taking gold, and mistreating people. The Rebels were not impressed!
Quest
Welcome back to our Create the Culture Quest, Discovery Rebels! On Monday, we discussed the key differences between a teacher and a guide. We used this to highlight the importance of understanding how Revel works and the importance ofbeing able to work together as peers. Using the Family Handbook, Rebels then worked in teams to answer some of the most commonly asked questions about the day-to-day operations at school. After this, we met to discuss something known as "The Tetris Effect." This was a cool connection to things they might like to add to their Hero Boards with the idea that things we look at often stay with our brains in ways we might not expect. Lastly, we ended their first Quest block of the week with a spotlight on the Alert system. Rebels (new and returning) had the chance to learn about this Guide accountability system. What triggers an alert? What are the consequences? How does this help keep our culture on track? On Tuesday, we explored the complicated emotions related to apologies. Rebel poll results show its harder for most of us to forgive than to say sorry. They also voted that you should reserve the right to decline an invitation to a Peace Table. Wednesday's topic was to force rank the eight Rules of Engagement related to Technology at Revel. Rebels worked with their teams to discuss which one of the 8 ROEs was the most important to keep. On Thursday, Rebels had time to complete any deliverables from the week that weren't complete, including Team Family Handbook Challenges or Hero Boards.
French
This week, the two French groups planned their French "aide-mémoire" for this year. As we're going "low tech" in French, this session, we'll be making tools that will help them in their classes, such as posters, memory aids, flashcards, and more!
In Group 1, we played games to learn the names of our family members (mother, father, grandmother, aunt, etc.). We also learned to introduce ourselves in French ("je m'appelle __________").
In Group 2, we began learning the different vowel groups in French. The aim was to learn to write and read all the French sounds.
Physical Development
On Tuesday and Thursday, one group headed outside for soccer practice in preparation for the upcoming jamborees! We talked about the rules of the game and then practiced various drills such as passing, shooting on net, and dribbling through cones. Afterwards, we practiced our skills with a 5v5 game. We rotated through various positions so everyone could get a chance to try them. The other group was in the gym practicing throwing and catching drills and then played an exciting round of dodgeball and Octopus! On Thursday, they enjoyed the weather on a beautiful hike!
Exploration Studio
Mindfulness and Launch
We began our week by discussing journaling and gratitude before decorating our Mindfulness notebooks with stickers. We will bring these journals out each week, taking time to reflect and list what we are grateful for. We then watched the short "Alike" and discussed how it applied to our Overarching Question of the Year. During Launch, we also reviewed test-taking strategies in preparation for the IOWA exam. Tuesday morning, we went outside for a mindful walk around the fields, under the trees, with the goal of connection, grounding and fresh air. Rebels teamed up with one or two studio mates to share likes, dislikes, and opinions using prompts on talking tickets. These prompts included things they could sense (see, hear, smell, etc.), and many pointed out the dewy grass!
Wednesday morning, Rebels had Free Choice Mindfulness, and we saw many learners choose to bead, knit, build with Lego, and colour mandalas with get-to-know-you prompts. "Continuous effort — not strength or intelligence — is the key to unlocking our potential." — Winston Churchill At Launch, Rebels reviewed the importance of Growth Mindset. We learned that a fixed mindset assumes intelligence and abilities are given and unlikely to improve. A growth mindset celebrates how the right attitude and habits lead to continual improvement. We spoke about trying to quiet the negative voice in our head and replace it with a positive one, celebrating progress and resilience, and seeing challenges as opportunities. Thursday's pilates flow introduced box breathing (inhale for four, hold for four, exhale for four, pause for four). After "arriving" on the mat and settling in with intentional breathwork, we stretched and flexed muscles with exercises like wall-supported "snow angel" calf raises and backward lunges with knee tucks. Back in the studio, we asked the learners what they would want their parents to better understand about Revel, our systems, and why we do what we do. Many commented that they appreciated the freedom and felt they could handle more responsibility at home. They also said that venting doesn't mean they need their parents to solve anything for them; they just want to get their frustration off their chest.
Lastly, Ms. Jenna joined us on Friday for Connections puzzles, where the Rebels solved many of the day's problems! Rebels took time to prepare for the week ahead on Friday as Erin will be out of the studio from Wednesday to Friday for a Mastery Transcript Consortium symposium. The learners quickly divvied up roles such as mindfulness leader and closing leaders, PD coaches, and more! This will be a great first test to see how learner-driven our studio is already becoming! During Closings this week, Rebels celebrated a learner's birthday and played fun games of Empire, Wax Museum, Blooket, and a descriptive drawing game!
IOWA
This week, the Exploration Rebels took part in the IOWA exam, a series of subtests focussed on reading, grammar, mathematical concepts, and computation to help us gather data about our program and identify trends that will help form our curriculum for the year. While many learners didn't particularly enjoy the experience, they did an excellent job completing each subtest without complaint and with complete respect for everyone testing.
Reader/Writer
Our first Reader/Writer workshop of the year gave Rebels and Guides a chance to get to know each other with a quick name-game icebreaker and a round of This OR That!? Rebels shared stories and connected over why they chose things like "Breakfast over Dinner" or preferred to swim in an ocean over a pool. Rebels jumped into the theme of their first writing project of the school year, "Writing a Letter to Our Future Selves," as we discussed the power of manifestation. We read a world-class example Jaida Ross' letter to herself that manifested her dream of competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics, which she accomplished this year! Rebels utilized the remainder of the workshop to complete a reading and writing preference survey to help explain to Guides what they like to read, what types of books, genres or series they're interested in, what topics they enjoy writing about, and overall feelings about their personal skill-levels in reading and writing. Next week, we'll dive into brainstorming goals and starting rough copies of our "Letters to Our Future Selves."
Math Lab
Our first sessional Math Lab theme is Building Thinking Studios. Based on the incredible research by Peter Liljedahl and his co-authors, we're adopting certain protocols for our labs this year, including standing while working at vertical dry-erase boards with one or two peers. These shifts in our routine lend to more thinking by the Rebels in more focused and sustained ways. Our first problem was the Twin Test. Rebels listened to a story about a pair of siblings who had always attended separate classes to curtail their competitiveness! One week, they both had a science test and shared this news around the dinner table only to immediately ask: which twin scored higher? Was it Twin A who earned 50 out of 70 possible points or Twin B who scored 40 out of 56? Many teams eventually represented the problem as fractions, and several worked to arrive at common denominators. Their reflection prompt was: What would you like to be able to remember about today's lab three weeks from now? Over the year, we will also work to develop notetaking skills that will benefit their independent studies in math during times like Core Skills.
French
This week, we had our first meeting in French. We set expectations, talked about French core skills, and explained how to play the French flag game. Then we discussed why learning multiple languages is essential and played an icebreaker game of Snakes and Ladders.
Civilizations
Notetaking is a skill we use in many walks of life, including school and work. However, many people have not honed the skills needed to maximize their notetaking potential. Therefore, on Monday, we learned ten top tips for notetaking in preparation for our Civilization classes. After reviewing that it is important to not write down every word, decide what is important, be an active listener/reader, use symbols and abbreviations, use colours to note differences, revise as soon as possible, be consistent, try to write legibly, and not worry about spelling and grammar. We also discussed how taking notes using the above suggestions makes it much easier to avoid plagiarism. We then learned about different not-taking strategies and took a few minutes to prep our Civilization notebook using the Cornell Method. For learners who prefer to type, they created a document to share with Erin for viewing.
On Tuesday, with our notebooks already prepped, we learned about Collective Learning. Dolphins have big brains; birds use tools; ants exhibit cooperative behaviour, and chimps share knowledge with other chimps. Homosapiens are the only species to acquire precise, versatile, symbolic language so powerful that it allows us to sustain collective learning and dominate planet Earth. Learners took notes while watching a couple of Big History videos and reading an article about Threshold 6: Humans and Collective Learning. We then had our first Socratic discussion of the year, where, using what we had learned, we debated what we would save in various scenarios and time periods, how we believe research grants should be spent, and what it means for humans now that we have AI.
Physical Development
Since all of the Rebels will need to coach PD throughout the year, we ran through the ins and outs of planning a PD class on Monday. We learned how to sign up for a particular day on the Bulletin Board and were shown the forms to fill out in advance, including the activity, materials required, warm-up, main activity, and cool-down. We also learned that coaches must encourage the participants and ensure positive sportsmanship throughout the class. Lastly, there is a reflection portion where coaches are given feedback. Once we were done going over the plan for the following weeks, Rebels went outside for a walk to trade books at the neighbourhood Little Libraries or play a game of soccer.
On Wednesday, a Rebel led a fantastic soccer session with a fabulous warm-up and cool-down while the other learners went to the park to play on the play structure, test their strength, and play a jumping get-to-know-you game.
Quest
On Monday, during Quest, we learned about the five stages of Tribal Leadership. We began with a TED Talk by David Logan, who explained the five kinds of tribes humans naturally form in schools and workplaces. We discussed that the keys to a powerful, healthy tribe include:
Respect for each learner and their journey.
Connecting through shared values.
Failing early, cheaply, and often so failure is expected if not celebrated.
Tracking progress in a transparent way.
Treating the studio as a sacred space.
We also took time to reflect on what level we think we are in our personal lives and where we feel we are as a studio. Rebels were then introduced to the idea of a Culture map visualization tool. Using a Google form, they were asked to identify their level of connection to each Rebel in the studio. Using the anonymous results, we can track our studio culture throughout the year, with the goal of becoming more and more connected as the year progresses. We then spoke about what it takes to develop a good habit. Learners took time to choose something they've always wanted to learn how to do and will practice it for 10 minutes every day for the entire session. Some chose to solve a Rubik's Cube; others chose American Sign Language, calligraphy, knitting and how to do a bicycle kick!
"It's not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, what are we busy about?" — Henry David Thoreau On Tuesday, Rebels learned or were reminded about the Big Rocks and the importance of blocking out time for what REALLY matters to them. Using the visual of a jar filled with big rocks, smaller stones, pebbles, sand, and water, learners saw that a jar could fit quite a bit when the big rocks were placed in first, and then the other items were added from largest to smallest. However, if you started with the water and sand and added the remaining items, from smallest to largest, the big rocks wouldn't fit inside the jar. This demonstration reminded us that we must prioritize the things that matter most to us before filling in the rest of the time with activities that don't leave us feeling joy or fulfilment. Using a template, Rebels reflected on their values and labelled their big rocks for their Hero Board display.
It was then time to create an Identity graphic. Outlining their hand on paper, they wrote 5-10 vital aspects of their identity inside the outline. On the outside, they added 5-10 aspects of how other people might label them. We observed the differences between how we see ourselves and believe others may see us. If comfortable, we will add the piece to our Hero Boards next week.
Wednesday, we spoke about three people that Erin admired and her reasoning. Learners then thought about family members, historical or present people in the public eye, book and movie characters, friends, and people within their community that they look up to. Once they narrowed their selection to three heroes, they wrote at least two reasons they look up to or admire them. If they had time, they also found a picture or object symbolizing each Hero Board choice. It was then time to talk about the Dreaded Drama Triangle and the Empowerment Dynamic. After learning about the three roles people often play in a Problem Orientation: Victim, Persecutor, and Rescuer, we learned how to flip our thinking to an Outcome Orientation, where the roles become Creator, Challenger, and Coach. Throughout the year, we will work to identify and reflect on our statements and behaviours in various scenarios and do our best to put ourselves in empowering roles. We also took time to read the book Bird Child to open a discussion on bullying, the danger of bystanders, and how a true friend should treat us. We spoke about past experiences and what we wanted our middle school studio to feel like, reminding one another about the harm rumours, gossip, and trash-talking cause individuals and a community.
On Thursday, we went over Revel's Excellence Standards. There are no grades or report cards at Revel Academy. Instead, learners set goals, judge progress, gather critiques, enlist accountability partners, and perform "after-action reviews" at the end of a session. In the upper studios, a badge is approved as "excellent" based on answers to the following questions: If this is the first time you have attempted the task: Is this your best work? If you have tried it before, is this better than last time? As work quality soars and plateaus, How does your work compare to a world-class example? Finally, Have you won a contest or been approved for a public exhibition? The focus on excellence encourages each learner to start as a beginner and continually improve until mastery.
Few freedoms are more important than the concept of self-governance. Rebels had time on Thursday to work in small committees to review and either write or alter our Exploration Studio maintenance system, Cell Phone and Personal Technology Policy, or Gym Agreement. Next week, as a full studio, we will read the documents, make suggestions, and approve this year's systems and policies.
Elective
Every Friday, Rebels have time to either catch up on their goals and assignments from earlier in the week or explore a Passion Project. On Friday, we explained an elective and discussed the various options. One group will use the time to create a band; another will take on the challenge of making the Revel Yearbook. Others will complete proposals for their Passion Projects, such as knitting, learning Spanish, creating a business, and learning about Food Science. Next week, those who picked the Passion Project option will pitch their idea to their peers for approval or feedback.
Additional Highlights
We continued our read-aloud of The 57 Bus on Tuesday and Friday, and several learners picked their first (or, in some cases, second) Deep Book to read during DEAR. We have also decided to track how many books we read as an entire studio this year and hope to create a HUGE tower by July!
In our Session 1 Squads, Rebels met to fill in their Google Goal sheet progress, vote for Character Badges, and convert their Journey Tracker points to Rebel Bucks. It was awesome to see the learners taking ownership of their goals and helping one another log their points!
To celebrate the completion of the IOWA testing, the Rebels voted to have an ice cream party on Friday afternoon! It was a delicious way to end the week!
At our first Town Hall, we ran through a typical agenda, awarded the Golden Dumpling, and G.O.A.T gave out our FIRST BADGE of THE YEAR, which ended with Character Callouts.
Launchpad Studio
Our learners are in various stages of their high school studies, so they take a personalized course load. In future blog entries, each learner will briefly summarize their studies to make our Launchpad entry more comprehensive!
Communication/Literature
Launchpad learners began their Comm/Lit course this week with an activity entitled "Literature is a Verb." We all read one poem and one novel excerpt to annotate and discuss: 1. What does it mean? 2. How do we know? and 3. Why does it matter? We started with examining the poem "Warning" by Jenny Joseph, then a short piece from Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, and Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen. With our feet wet, we're ready to jump into the course next week to learn more about literature terms to help add more analysis and depth to our discussions.
AP Language and Composition
The Advanced Placement Language and Composition course began this week with introductory assignments to help get comfortable with the syllabus, forums, and expectations for the course. They then began a vocabulary study and a Rhetorical Situation unit. Later in the week, they reviewed claims, evidence, and commentary, and by their next class, they were asked to submit an original post for the Unit 1 Forum.
AP Literature and Composition
Meanwhile, our learner taking the Advanced Literature and Composition course also began their course introduction, investigated the different genres of literature, practiced their critical and close reading skills and analyzed a reading. They also began working on an expository writing piece for their instructor to assess their current writing skills.
AP Biology
On Tuesday, one of our learners had their first online meeting with their Johns Hopkins Center for Talented Youth APBiology professor. The rest of the week was spent preparing for the course by completing a Lab Safety quiz and Diagnostic Test. This next week they will review the fundamentals before diving into Metacognition 101!
Canadian and International Law
Our learner who is taking the Canadian and International Law course with R.I.S.E. met with their instructor, and they are incredibly excited about the content and challenges this course will entail!
Additional Highlights
Launchpad Learners also worked on their chosen math course, read their Deep Books, and chose a computer science course. One Rebel worked on the Measuring the Anzacs project on Zooniverse to help tell the stories of all New Zealand service men and women from World War I. Oh, and scones, there was also time to make scones!
Potential Discussion Ideas or Questions to Ask Your Rebel:
Spark Studio
Was there a new piece of math material you worked on this week?
What does family mean to you?
What does kindness mean to you and your family?
What is a friendship?
Which ROE did you choose for group circles?
Discovery Studio
Reader Writer: What are some of the goals you have started to manifest for your "Letter to Our Future Selves"?
Math Lab: What does BTS stand for, and was this week's problem in your comfort zone, challenge, or panic zone?
Quest: What is an alert, and how do you get one?
Quest: What elements did you include on your Hero Board?
Quest: Do you have to attend a Peace Table when invited? Why or why not?
Exploration Studio
Civilization: Collective learning is powerful because it implies an ever-expanding, potentially limitless evolution of knowledge. Can collected learning be slowed, stopped, or sped up? If so, how?
Reader Writer: Do you think the power of manifestation is real? By writing things down, does that give your goals and aspirations a higher chance of becoming reality?
Math Lab: What did you think of the Building Thinking Studios protocol? Did you enjoy working on mathematics this way? Why or why not?
What did you choose for your elective?
Launchpad Studio
What course are you most excited about currently?
What would you like to see added to your schedule?
How do you think we could raise the Tribal Level as a school community?
Important Upcoming Dates
*NEW DATE: Family Onboarding - Family Badges: Wednesday, September 25th online. (See link on BAND)
Grade 2-3 Soccer Jamboree: Thursday, September 26th, at Turnbull School from 9:00 am-12:00 pm.
*NEW DATE Grade 4-6 Soccer Jamboree: Now taking place October 4th at Wesley Clover Turf Field from 10 am to 2 pm.
The LET GROW experience has officially launched! See Erin's post on Revel Rebels BAND for guardian support and the Revel Recap email for the Project Idea List. We can "not wait to see the Rebels step outside their comfort zones and gain independence as the session continues!