The third and fourth grades discussed an extremely important learner attitude this month and will continue to focus on 'respect' throughout the rest of the school year.  The definition the students will be using is a familiar, but basic saying, “Treat others the way you want to be treated.” 

In the activity seen here the students' goal was to use respect in teamwork.  The goal was to stack the cups in a pyramid using only yarn attached to a rubber band.  They could not use their hands or fingers to help and if a cup fell off the table they had to work as a team using the yarn and rubber band to get it back onto the table.  The teams were also timed.  This will allow future attempts to be compared and to measure their growth in teamwork skills.  Teamwork/respect skills included good communication with a highlight on listening, sportsmanship, encouragement, etc.

‘When are we a team?’ was also discussed.  The students came up with…everywhere, all day.  They are a third grade team, they have a third grade class team, when they work in small groups or pairs, and on the playground. 

It was important for the students to address the issue of return attitude.  When we are respectful to others, it does not always mean they will be respectful back.  However, it is important for us to remain respectful with assertiveness to be good role models for those individuals unable, for whatever reason, at this point to show the trait of respect.