Our topic: Bullying

We began with a discussion about preferences versus unfair issues. We included an example of social justice performed by Newark students in response to the Trayvon Martin story. NEWS 12 New Jersey covered the story (click here). Then, we asked the students, "What don't you like in school or in your neighborhood?" The students named three topics: crime, littering and bullying. The students drew a picture of the issue most important to them.


The following day, we viewed YouTube videos of the top two topics: littering and bullying. After, the students voted. It was a close race, but bullying was voted our main focus.

Littering

Bullying

Reflection: Throughout the year, I have learned my students respond well to visual aids. Their comprehension enhances when they are able to see a picture or video of the subject. In addition, visual assessments, such as drawing, help me understand what my students are thinking and allows me to formulate the next steps in our learning phase.