The Problem
Global Citizenship is the theme of Alberta's Grade 3 Social Studies. While it specifically focuses in on Ukraine, Tunisia, India and Peru, the goal is for students to see themselves as part of a world community. However, students in grade 3, especially ones who have never traveled more than five hours from home by car, have little idea of other countries. How could I possible make it interesting and relevant?
The Idea
Recently I found a blog I LOVE to follow - Tunstall's Teaching Tidbits. One of my favorite lessons I found from her was regarding a Classroom Pet... you can read about it here: Class Pet Writing Journal
I also had a Pastor when I was a child who used to occasionally start her Children's Church messages with postcards from an imaginary lizard that traveled the world.
I also had a Pastor when I was a child who used to occasionally start her Children's Church messages with postcards from an imaginary lizard that traveled the world.
Introducing Mr. Mahkesis!
I bought this stuffed fox from Ikea, and felt it went well with my Woodland Animals semi-theme from my classroom. He is going to be named Mr. Mahkesis (Cree word for Fox), and he is going to travel the world for me! He has a lovely suitcase and "Pawsport" from Build-A-Bear so he is ready for his travels.
He also has a Happy Birthday t-shirt from Build-A-Bear so the children can take a photograph with him on their birthday!
The Project
Throughout the year Mr. Mahkesis will send us postcards from different places. I have collected postcards from around the world thanks to my friends, family, and a hobby I have called "Postcrossing".
After introducing Mr. Mahkesis (in the same style as Ms. Tunstall did!), I plan on reading Meerkat Mail. This is about a Meerkat who travels around the world and send postcards home about the places he visits.
My students will be able to write him letters and postcards while he is travelling as well. We will post the postcards he sends us on our World Map.
After introducing Mr. Mahkesis (in the same style as Ms. Tunstall did!), I plan on reading Meerkat Mail. This is about a Meerkat who travels around the world and send postcards home about the places he visits.
My students will be able to write him letters and postcards while he is travelling as well. We will post the postcards he sends us on our World Map.
The Outcome?
I will keep you posted on how the students respond to the idea. They are in grade 3, so writing to a stuffed animal might be a bit below them, but I think it will be a fun addition to our Social Studies!