Making Connections and Links

Making Connections and Links

Research in the field of neuroscience is showing that making connections and linking new information with already aquired knowledge, cross curricular, helps to grow neuro-pathways – building a better brain!

I encourage connections through a variety of methods:

• higher order questions, journaling, CSIs (colour, symbol, image)  and other strategies from “Making Thinking Visable” done in the student’s LLL (Learning Linking Log)
•  Introduction throughout the school year of Core Cosmic Concepts (overarching concepts that are in ever subject areas)
  

  Introduction of the first two Core Cosmic Concepts

• Planning units around the Big Idea and essential questions of understanding to be explored
• Planning integrated units to fascilitate the making of connections
• Use of “Private Eye”

The Private Eye

I find this educational tool invaluable in the classroom. I have explored the form, and therefore the function, of different aspects of plants with all ages of elementary school. As one of the organizers of the gardening club, I had the opportunity to witness the learning and connections that can be made in and through nature. Developing the ability to make scientific observations, identify patterns, and reflect on the “why” is beneficial to the learning of skills and growth of better brains. The Private Eye is a constant in my classroom.

Here my lesson plan for the introduction of The Private Eye to a Grade 6/7 class (although this class was done in French, the lesson plan was written in English for the ease of my faculty advisor).