From Thinker to Open-minded

November assemblies* were focused on the IB Learner Profile attribute “Thinker”. With IB Coordinator Teresa Wirsching, the students brainstormed about “problems” at school. Students voiced concerns about graffiti, lining up, bullying, bathroom manners, and noise in the hallways, to name a few. Each class took a problem to solve collectively. After working on this for a week or two, each class presented their analysis of the problem, strategies and solutions to the rest of the student body. What a great bunch of thinkers! Please see their work on the bulletin boards in Stearns Hall and Hilltop buildings.

In December we will be focusing on the IB Learner Profile attribute “Open-Minded”:

We critically appreciate our own cultures and personal histories, as well as the values and traditions of others. We seek and evaluate a range of points of view, and we are willing to grow from the experience. (IBO 2013)

The ISP Library will host a project for grades K-5 which will involve learning about a culture or tradition other than one’s own by checking out a book from the library and reading it on his/her own or with a parent or caregiver. After the student has read and reflected on the book, he/she will cut out a snowflake and write on it his/her name and the culture or tradition read. This project is designed to foster international-mindedness, community and open-mindedness. We hope you enjoy the symbolism of the singular snowflake joining a harmonious community of singular snowflakes.

Please turn these snowflakes into the Librarian or hang them yourself on the snowflake display outside the library.

Tamara Beecroft, Librarian, library@intlschool.org, 503-226-2496 ext. 102

* There are two assemblies in the gym every Wednesday: one for grades 1 & 2, and another one for grade 3-5.