Let's Revisit Executive Skills

This year I'm taking on an (old-ish) skill development program/framework/curriculum for helping students.  Executive Functioning is not a new phrase, yet there is so much work being done by researchers, scientists, and teachers.  I feel I need to revive it with my students.  I need to place the power on them to analyze themselves, reflect, set goals, and improve.

**Executive functioning is an umbrella term for the regulation of working memory, reasoning, task flexibility, and problem solving.  This term also includes planning and the execution of plans.

Experts are now aware that a students' executive functioning skills are a truer indicator of success than intelligence tests. (Galinsky)

These skills begin developing early... we're talking at 2-3 years old.  As a teacher working with kindergarten through 6th graders, I see executive skills as a blinding issue in all areas.  My students are wonderful, kind, bright, interesting people, yet all of them (and all of us) have executive skill deficits of some kind.  And I believe we all know a few students whose personalities and skills are not "fitting" with how classrooms are run.

The ways in which I'm using the research on executive functioning to better my students' skills and school experience include:

• Students take questionnaires to target areas of weakness. 
• Students make SMART goals based on their deficit areas.
• Lessons often include movement.
• Color code materials and class information.
• Students are given TIME to organize lockers, folders, etc.
• Students are given the time and opportunity to talk through problems with peers.

I'm really just getting started integrating executive functioning into my teaching, and I'm already seeing the value and importance! 

Here are some reads I've found helping...

    

And here's a great resource for more information : http://rnbc.org/education/a-focus-on-executive-function/

"Throwback Thursday"

My "Throwback Thursday" topic is a community service project my class undertook two years ago when I taught 3rd grade.  The kiddos in my class were always bothered that there was no public library in town, so they decided to do something about it! 

We made a Little Free Library! 

Here's an example of a LFL with a door, roof, and post.
LFLs should be placed in a high foot-traffic area like a park or playground. 

Our fabulous librarian had the idea, and we put it into action.  In short, a Little Free Library is an oversized birdhouse that is home to books.  It is set out near a sidewalk/street for community members to visit.  To begin, it must be filled with books to share.  The check-out policy is based on the motto: "Take a Book, Leave a Book."  People come visit, donate a book as they take one home.  

 Students brainstormed ideas for a location around the school, connected with other LFL owners on Twitter, and shared responsibilities on a Google Doc.  With the generosity of a parent, our library was built and ready for service by the end of the year!  We received donations from school families for books to get us rolling.

Many are painted to match the type of books they contain or geographic location.

If you're looking for a motivating, low-budget community service project, I highly recommend making a Little Free Library!  

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