NewsPre-K to 8Academics
Ayer creates superstar lessons
Sep 30, 2002 8:00 AM
By Stefan Eady - Faculty
Instruction in Patricia Ayer’s kindergarten class often includes hands-on activities or, sometimes, unusual campus visitors. To captivate students and make the lessons standout, Ayer finds creative ways to merge lessons and bring them to life. Math lessons on patterns and social studies lessons on teamwork were combined to demonstrate school spirit when Ayer’s kindergarteners, the superstars, created a banner for the varsity football team to demonstrate their support and school pride. The banner was presented to varsity cheerleaders during a Lower School pep rally in September.
"Even though our program may be more academic than many kindergarten programs, hands-on projects and teachable moments comprise a good portion of learning opportunities with any five year old," Ayers explained. "Then when a young child can combine academic lessons, such as patterns and teamwork, with a creative, yet tangible, real life application it becomes something unforgettable." The superstars also hold Show and Tell each week to build self-confidence, have the chance to speak in front of others, and share with classmates. “Show and Tell is a great way to introduce public speaking to young children. Even a shy child enjoys sharing a favorite toy or a neat souvenir collected on a holiday or during a walk,” Ayers said. “For many this takes great courage, for after all, the children are presenting to their peers. Something adults sometimes struggle with. Our Show and Tell experiences are segues into performing in our School performances. Each time we speak publicly our self-confidence is boosted and our comfort level is elevated.”
Lessons often include memorable visits from family members. For example, Savannah Winn (and her mom) brought their new puppy to show to the class. Show and Tell puppies are not the only visitors in kindergarten. When relevant, Ayer invites other friends in the community to campus to enhance class lessons. During a lesson on community heroes, Rescue 1 individuals shared their experiences with the class. Not only did students learn about civil servants through classroom lessons, but, they were able to talk with them, ask them questions, and hear first-hand stories.
"Even though our program may be more academic than many kindergarten programs, hands-on projects and teachable moments comprise a good portion of learning opportunities with any five year old," Ayers explained. "Then when a young child can combine academic lessons, such as patterns and teamwork, with a creative, yet tangible, real life application it becomes something unforgettable." The superstars also hold Show and Tell each week to build self-confidence, have the chance to speak in front of others, and share with classmates. “Show and Tell is a great way to introduce public speaking to young children. Even a shy child enjoys sharing a favorite toy or a neat souvenir collected on a holiday or during a walk,” Ayers said. “For many this takes great courage, for after all, the children are presenting to their peers. Something adults sometimes struggle with. Our Show and Tell experiences are segues into performing in our School performances. Each time we speak publicly our self-confidence is boosted and our comfort level is elevated.”
Lessons often include memorable visits from family members. For example, Savannah Winn (and her mom) brought their new puppy to show to the class. Show and Tell puppies are not the only visitors in kindergarten. When relevant, Ayer invites other friends in the community to campus to enhance class lessons. During a lesson on community heroes, Rescue 1 individuals shared their experiences with the class. Not only did students learn about civil servants through classroom lessons, but, they were able to talk with them, ask them questions, and hear first-hand stories.
