Saturday, April 6, 2013

Smarty Pants... ;)

I like this for a couple of reasons.... but I will get to those later. ;)

The idea is that at the end of an important part of a unit, students need to show what they have learned.  They get a piece of coloured paper and scissors.  First they make a pair of pants, and then fill them with all the points they can remember.  I like to hang them on pegs above the door so that they end up reading them again as they leave.  Also, it looks cute.

I have done the same thing as "Dirty Laundry" teaching about the Russian Revolution or the Rise of Hitler.  Explaining on an item of clothing all the things the government didn't want the people to know... then airing it as dirty laundry in public.

Students get into it because they can't help but be silly... and the little tiny pegs also get them somewhat excited. 

I like it because as they start to fill the page, they end up discussing or quering or even... heaven forfend... checking back in their notes to make sure their pants are accurate.  I also get a really clear idea of who understands the topic, and who is still a little mystified. 

4 comments:

  1. Oh, what a fun idea! I may have to try this.
    Sara

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    1. This is ALWAYS a treat. Some kids hate making the shape of pants... I always make the easiest shape... and suggest easy shaped items. Other kids really get into it in a massive way. I think it is the little pegs.... ;)

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  2. This is so cute! Thank you for sharing. =)

    I am happy to be your newest follower. I would love for you to hop over and visit when you get the chance.

    Heather
    Heather's Heart

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    1. I'm totally following back. I think that the best teaching ideas come from early-years teachers... because you have enthusiastic students... with a LOT to learn. You all seem to have incredibly good ideas that are simple yet attention grabbing.

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