Happy new week from the Spark Studio! We’re “snow” excited to share highlights from our “frostastic” week!
In the spirit of the new year, the Spark heroes accepted the challenge of extending their core skills time (focused on reading, math, and writing) from 1 hour and 45 minutes to 1 hour and 55 minutes. They agreed to the goal to reach two hours by the end of this session. The learners seamlessly embraced the extended learning time and all agreed that they didn’t notice the additional minutes ticking away! Time flies when you’re having fun.
They also agreed to practice a new way of goal-setting. Instead of tying goals to a specific number of problems or pages, they are engaged in the “Marshmallow Challenge.” To earn a marshmallow, each learner selects an area of focus for each of the four sections of time. Throughout that section, they stay committed to maintaining a “marshmallow body” – a quiet body and voice, ensuring they do not distract others as well as staying focused on the work they have chosen. This shift has significantly increased focus and provided more freedom for learners to choose Montessori tools that resonate with their interests.
During this week’s Buildings and ‘Bots Quest, the children explored the purpose of bridges and the factors influencing their strength. In small groups, learners tested materials to create bridges that would successfully support the crossing of our “Three Billy Goats.” Additionally, the quest included an engaging Lego bridge-building activity, adding a creative dimension to our learning experience.
As part of our weekly Hero Spotlight morning launches, we explored the life of Martin Luther King Jr. The learners reflected on his impactful words in his “I Have a Dream” speech, and shared their own dreams on how to make the world a better place.
We’re looking forward to more exploration, discovery, and growth in the Spark Studio next week!
