  articles, opinions, and research about teaching and learning Holidays and special daysFestival days, holidays, and other special days - such as birthdays of national leaders or anniversaries of historical events - are important occasions in the life of a community. These can also be wonderful opportunities to involve families and the community in our classrooms. Study the meaning and origin of special days.Children can learn the history of a special day, when it began and why it is important. Children can also interview family and community members about the meaning of the special day for them, and about their memories of celebrations from years past. Stage a class festival celebration. Young children love to learn folk dances, and about traditional foods and costumes, and these tie them directly to their communities. Invite adults to the class to introduce these topics to the class, to display materials, or demonstrate techniques. If appropriate, stage a celebration in your class, with songs and dances, and food brought by family members. Dramatise the event.Children can prepare for a special day by writing and performing historically based dramatic scenes (see Themes for active learning) Invite family members, other classes, and members of the community to attend the performances. Journal activity: Studying for a special dayPlan a unit of study centring on a holiday or other special day. Choose a special day that interests you, and that you feel will provide opportunities for learning. List all the activities you can think of that might connect the special day to your class and curriculum. Which of these activities will be most worthwhile? Can any of them be combined? Are there opportunities for your class to work with children in another class? Settle on a central activity, such as a class festival, and several supporting activities, such as interviews with family members and the development of dramatic scenes. Identify the materials and preparation required for each activity, how family members and community members will be involved (if they will), and a rough timeline. Be sure to share the ways that you and other teachers in your school use holidays and special days as topics for learning. Post your ideas to the Teachers Talking Forum. |
 |
Explore Ideas ·
Discuss Issues ·
Take Action http://www.unicef.org/teachers/ Last revised April, 1999 Copyright © UNICEF |