Dear readers,
This year we will read a fiction book that is based on a true story. The book takes place in Sudan, a war torn country in Africa. It is a glimpse into the tribal culture and the effects of war on civilians. 6th graders found themselves enthralled by the characters and setting and would go home at night and research Sudan and the tribes in the book. They read articles, looked at maps, and watched documentaries. In short, they built their knowledge to better understand what was going on in the book, and they let their curiosity drive their learning. Last year the students took it one step further and organized and executed the Sweets for Sudan project. As a teacher this was a pivotal moment where my students were actively pursuing their learning, their excitement to make the world a better place was contagious, and they chose to help those across the world because of a novel. Reading can be a powerful thing.
Personally, I am curious about a lot of different subjects and love reading articles. My curiosity about the world leads me to travel and learn about the history and culture of different places around the world. I am not able to travel everywhere or all the time, so often times I research about places or read fiction books that take me to places I may never see, and I feel as if my world expands through reading. I also do rather extensive research when planning a trip. Researching before hand helps me use my time wisely in a new place by exploring the places that most interest me and also will give me a sense of the current culture. I read blogs, reviews, articles, and check out travel books from the library. Over Christmas I will travel with my parents and brother to Peru and hike to Machu Picchu to see the ancient Inca ruins hidden in the Andes Mountains. No doubt I will read a lot before the trip to build anticipation but to also appreciate what I will see and experience.
In addition, I enjoy watching and playing sports. I often times look up inspiring athletes or articles about important games. As a former college athlete, I do not officially play a sport anymore, but I thoroughly enjoy knowing what is going on in the sports world. Researching historical figures and events, different places to travel, and sports in general are all subjects I am curious about and I enjoy expanding my knowledge and therefore my world.
I hope everyone is having a great summer!
Ms. Sikes