
We come together in our lamp lit rooms,
Groups of three of four with heads bent low
Poring over texts we’ve learnt to heart,
To which we’ve cried and lol’d, identified
With headstrong girls that gallop through
Those yellowed pages from a hundred years ago.
And as the words bounce around our circle in
A hum of thoughts sitting on the tips of tongues –
‘Miss! I know the answer, I think –
I just can’t say the words quite yet.
But as we weave together all those broken pieces,
Like women at the clacking loom, singing songs
To aid the fingers in their work, we see
The outline of the greatness held within;
All it took was gentle prising from the brain
With help from friends in little study groups.
I ran my first little lunchtime study group today – and it was such a positive experience. I had some of my difficult students – who have made me cry – come along, and that understandably made me a bit nervous.
However, I’m determined to build bridges and make sure those students have confidence in me. After all, I hate the idea that they might be sitting in my class thinking I’m crap at my job and that they would rather have one of my colleagues teaching them.
I know from going to small bible study groups that studying in a smaller group can be really powerful. Something happens when minds come together and everyone has a chance to engage and listen to each other. And I find that pretty amazing.
Today made my heart feel full of gratitude (and a little bit of pride in myself, sorry). I’ll definitely be running these groups regularly and it has reminded me how much I have actually missed meeting with people and having a meaningful dialogue.
Do make sure that you take every opportunity to bounce ideas around with people; you never quite know what will come out of it.
Much Love,
Rachel xx
Margot Kinberg
Research has shown for several years now, Rachel, that small group work – collaboration – is a powerful tool to include students, bring them together, empower them to learn, and invite them to engage in what they’re doing. It really is helpful, and especially for students like the ones you describe, who don’t benefit from a traditional classroom all the time. I’m so happy it worked out for you!
clcouch123
Tomorrow is a holiday of thanks in the USA. I’m thankful for your dedication.
crispina kemp
So glad things are taking a good turn for you
Greg Dennison
Awesome
Jason A. Muckley
Love this!!