This semester, students in my classes will be set up into working groups usually referred to as “Tribes”. These groups are different than social groups and are meant to help with a myriad of different adolescent developmental needs. In the past 18 years of working with teenagers at Governor Simcoe I have seen such a change in students. Never before have I taught so many kids with anxiety and self-esteem issues; even the “best” students are sometimes unwilling to share their ideas and insights because they feel uncomfortable speaking in front of a crowd.
At this time in education, we are trying to move away from the outdated system of educating kids like they did during the Industrial Revolution (students sit and listen while a teacher lectures) to a more contemporary system that requires more critical thinking and cooperation of students.
In order to begin the “Tribes” process, it is necessary to do some team building and “get to know you” activities early in the semester. These activities will eventually result in mutual respect of students and teacher and allow us to move forward with the curriculum. Your son/daughter will hopefully improve communication skills, participation, self-control, emotional intelligence, and critical thinking.
“If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together”