Comm Rationale
I. Communication:
A. Rationale / Compelling Ideas:
To communicate is the essence of being human. Effective communication is an essential skill needed to thrive in the world. Beyond mastering subject area content, our students need to be able to express themselves in a variety of methods. They must also understand and come to value that effective communication is nearly always a two-way process. And yet without effective communication, true collaboration is impossible; the two go hand in hand.
As teachers, we can help students acquire these essential skills though we need to change how we do business. Change is not easy, yet it is far easier when it is greeted by choice. With the never ending onslaught of information, it is more important how students learn than what they learn.
We firmly believe that all students can achieve and excel at high levels if they understand what is expected of them. We know the classroom teacher is a powerful equalizer who can prepare students for an uncertain future by helping them gain skills that will serve them regardless of the paths they take.
My students already communicate and collaborate in groups, what’s new here?
In today’s classroom, teachers and students are communicating effectively when they are sharing, exchanging, and distributing information in a variety of ways. Students are collaborating effectively when they are working together to investigate and solve complex problems, reach common goals, and create innovative products using a variety of resources. Designing and successfully implementing these communicative and collaborative activities require different skills from teachers and students.
