Finding time for all students to reflect upon their performance has been successful using this magnet system in our Elemenrary choice based art studio. The last 10 minutes of class is reserved for clean up and final five for closing circle. Each student is assigned a number and shares one sentence about their performance inspired by the goal chart. With practice and time we have heard remarkable and meaningful statements:
“I chose application for my ideas about making a ship in sculpture rather than drawing because my grandfather and I used to build things” Henry 3rd.
“I chose effort because I had never tried plaster strips before.” Isabella 4th
” I planned to continue my drawing and I ‘le penned*’ it.” Andres 2nd
*You know those slender fine tip Le Pens? Like sharpies great colors, but I get dozens of black. We nick-named the act of outlining amazing sketches into finished drawings by terming ‘le penned’~ Just a silly, funny, but seriously official hard working moment!
Students arrive to art in half groups willing to watch demos, but often have a plan in place. Students also track their choices and additional reflections during portfolio week, the last week of each grading period. Our largest homeroom of 28, then half group of 14 did take longer, so I’ll consider odds share one week and evens the other, but this group also cleans up in less than five. Sharing is also relative on which group can transition smoothly. Some groups are better than others. Students DO value creative time and closing circle immensely, so I remind: The more time you spend cooperating, buys you creative time and closing circle minutes.
We do highlight SHOM behaviors, but more in introduction, demonstration & portfolio reflections. The goal magnet system has been working for about three years, did take some time, but now they desire.
Paige P. Byrne 