Book Club: Teaching about Teamwork and Sharing

• A class is a team and if doesn't work like one, then you don't get results. One of the most difficult things is to make young learners feel safe enough to open up and feel part of a class. It takes time and effort to persuade children to trust you and their classmates and bond in a team. We have to help them by building a strong, non-threatening small community in which they can belong, be themselves, feel comfortable to share and above all care for one another. Through this process they develop social skills, such as co-operation and standing up for themselves without being hostile or violent. They learn to express themselves in order to be understood, they form bonds and friendships that can last a life time.

• I teach English in a Greek primary school, so I don't get to see my students every day. I teach almost 80 children from 2nd to 6th grade. It can sometimes be hard to build a sense of community. My classes are small in number, but they might include children from different classes, so teamwork and bonding as a group are essential. Once again, us teachers, can turn to children literature for help. I have found that childrens' books make a difference especially when it comes to young learners. Books will always help get the message across in an implicit way. I have gathered three of the books that I have been using in class over the years and the children love them. I hope you find them as meaningful and useful as I have.

1. The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein

(Low resolution photo from Wikipedia, used only to illustrate an article discussing the book in question, so the reader forms a complete understanding of the subject.)

• A couple of years ago I had the opportunity to co-teach a class with a colleague I have come to love and admire. Tanja brought in to class what has become one of my favourite books: The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein. The class we taught together was already a caring and sharing team, however by reading this book to them, she opened new doors of communication. Every year I enjoy reading this book with my students. What follows is a compilation of videos and activities that one can use either in the classroom or at home with their child. 

• In this book Shel Silvestein, one of my favourite children authors, demonstrates in the simplest way the importance of giving and sharing without waiting anything in return. Once again I am going to urge you to visit the official Shel Silvestein website for more materials and information. 

• You might also want to have a look at the original 1973 short film narrated by Shel Silverstein himself. 

• Another great YouTube video of the book. Wonderful animation.

• You might also want to have a look at the following site for more information on how to teach "The Giving Tree". 

http://efstudents.webnode.com/news/the-giving-tree-lesson-notes/

2. The Rainbow Fish by Marcus Pfister. 

(Photo from Photobucket.com)

• Another brilliant story about belonging and sharing within a group. The most beautiful fish in the sea feels lonely and secluded until it discovers the essence of giving to the team. 

(Photo from Photobucket.com)

• I found a wonderful video of the book made by students that you might want to check out.

• Momitforward.com offers a list of related activities and crafts you can use at home or in class. Have a look at the following link:

http://momitforward.com/rainbow-fish-kids-craft-activity-to-teach-sharing-and-giving

3. The Stone Soup by Marcia Brown.

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(Photo from Photobucket.com)

• This folk tale demonstrates the importance of community sharing to make it through difficult times. People can do anything as long as they stick together and support each other. 

• Also check out the YouTube Video: 

You might also like:

Teaching about being different.

It Is Ok To Be Different Class Books.