We spread our maps with ice cold tea
And singe the edges for a pirate map
To show the things we’ve learnt about
The pirate books like Treasure Island,
Jamaica Inn and other classics we have read.
Once dried we draw our ‘x’ in marker pen
And wonder what is buried there,
Before we stick them to the wall
With staple guns and stretchy globs
Of Blue Tack sure to peel away in days to come.
The finished picture always looks quite naff,
But work has gone in, independently,
And so we all stand back with pride,
Admiring what we have so undeniably achieved.
When I started my teacher training, one of the things that I was most excited about was getting my own room so that I could decorate. However, I forgot that I would probably be too busy to actually get around to doing that decorating.
I have been very lucky and I seem to have acquired two students who want to hang out in my room and do my display boards. And now that they have been prettied up I’m really excited again.
It’s made me remember my own school days when I used to love to help make art displays to go on the boards. And one of my favourite activities was to make treasure maps using tea bags and naked flames.
I think that my entire half term break is going to be spent thinking about ways I can work a treasure map into the current scheme of work. Do you think that Romeo and Juliet could have apirate in there somewhere?
Much Love
Rachel xx
Margot Kinberg
I love it that your students are motivated to help you and create displays for the classroom. That gives them a sense of ownership in the classroom community, and that’s great! I think it also helps to make the classroom feel more ‘homelike.’ Decorating a classroom can be a lot of fun, too.
patientandkindlove
I love that I have these students who find me pleasant enough to spend their lunch with. Some can barely stand the 3 hours a week they have to spend in my room!
clcouch123
Outstanding that you have helpers and that the room looks and feels better for everyone. I’ve no doubt pirates are part of the pedigree of Capulets and Montagues.
patientandkindlove
Yes! I knew we could work the pirates in somehow!