The Walking Classroom has become a favorite rotation within the week’s routine. My students either have seatwork or “walkwork” depending on the day. They are thrilled when it is their turn for the interesting and engaging podcast.
I select podcasts to reinforce and enhance a unit we are studying either in social studies or science. The students walk with their small group up and down the long hallway as they listen. Then, they return to the classroom to take the quiz. This rotation has taught self-reliance, self-discipline and perseverance. By the end of the year, my students’ focus and memory have improved, and their listening skills are much sharper!
On days that we don’t have our classroom rotations, I try to take the whole crew out to the dirt track behind the school. We get in a lesson and some laps! Upon returning, we love discussing the podcast topics. The students lead us in seeing how we did on the quiz.
Over the course of the year, we all watch how scores go from pretty rough to begin with to dynamic by the end of the year. Students who may struggle in other areas usually shine with their auditory super style! I LOVE The Walking Classroom!
I have a fellow teacher whose grandson will be in my class this year. She keeps sharing with me how excited she is to see how much he grows and how much weight he loses by walking twice a week!! I know he will grow in knowledge and confidence regardless. The exercise is fantastic at helping all of my students stay sharp and be alert in their other rotations or interventions. The movement truly benefits my restless souls and those bubbling over with enthusiasm!
The Walking Classroom energizes my students in a positive, appropriate manner, engages them in a thoughtful, relevant way, and extends the hand (or foot) to learning in a fresh, fun fashion!
Julia Zamarripa
Fifth Grade Teacher
Mountain View Core Knowledge School
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