A Day in the Life of a Redwood

Here’s a sneak peak into what went on last week in Crestmont’s Fourth/Fifth Grade classroom…

This week students participated in two activities connected to this particular time of year. First, a Redwood student’s grandfather and mother prepared and led us through a lesson and activity about Diwali. The student created a tri-fold poster to teach the meaning and history of this holiday. The kids loved the message of good conquering evil, light over darkness.

Then the kids created rangoli, a traditional Indian art form where patterns are created on floors and tables, from colored sand, flour, or flower petals. They are symbols of joy, prosperity, and good luck, often created for festivals, holidays, or to welcome deities. 

Later in the week, in preparation for conferences next week, students filled out a self-reflection page. Starting in fourth grade, students begin to participate in their own conferences. Self-reflection fosters meta-cognition and allows students to take ownership of their own learning and experience. This leads to greater autonomy and encourages a growth mindset.