Over the last few weeks Year 3 have been taking part in various Forest School activities, writing rhymes, tower building and this week, creating simple games. The common link is the need for the children to collaborate no matter what the activity and no matter whos in their team. This over-arching theme of collaboration links directly to their PSE lessons which then gets examined in more detail back in class.
By working collaboratively the children learn the advantages of sharing their skills and through reflection, they have devised a range of solutions to resolve disagreements and more practical problems. For conflict, various methods were employed; from rock paper scissors to voting, assigning a captain, to negotiation. They soon realised the importance of creating an agreement before the task even started to ensure that all team members abided by their chosen resolution. For more practical issues such as arguing over resources, they discovered that trade and barter tends to make for a more positive outcome. Could they swap or take turns so ensuring opportunities are fair. Speaking from a place of positivity and having a” can do” attitude makes the process so much easier and more enjoyable for everybody.
Back in class they laid out mind maps in their books to represent what they have learned. It was very impressive to see how they were able reflect on their own behaviour, recognise what went well and identify when things may have started to unravel. They learned the value of thinking ahead, trying to spot when things are taking a down turn and acting to prevent it. Learning to show humility and be less scornful of mistakes, whether they are our own, or the failings in others. Useful skills to be carried through to all aspects of life.
Principle 3: Forest School aims to promote the holistic development of all those involved, fostering resilient, confident, independent and creative learners.
Article 2 – No one should be treated unfairly for any reason.
-
- The children built their games then devised any rules, forfeits or rewards.
-
- 2 contestants were chosen to test each game.
-
- The game had to be explained to the contestants clearly.
-
- Once the contestants had tested the games they were asked for feedback on gameplay, fun and reward factor.
-
- After each game had been completed contestants and the audience gave more feedback …..
-
- …..this included possible improvements to increase challenge.
-
- Having a point systems added a competitive level.
-
- Mind-maps to represent what they’ve learned about collaboration.
