Active learning ideas
The school community is the first 'wider world' Junior Infants encounter. This topic, under the 'Developing citizenship' strand, helps children understand their place within the school. They identify the various roles people play, from the principal and secretary to the caretaker and SNA, and how each person helps the school run smoothly.
Activity 01
The class goes on a walk around the school to 'spot' different helpers. They use a checklist to tick off when they see the office, the staffroom, and the caretaker's area.
Who helps us in our school?
Activity 02
In small groups, children are given a 'problem' (e.g., everyone talking at once). They must come up with a 'rule' to fix it and act out how the rule helps the class.
Why do we have classroom rules?
Activity 03
Children think of one person in the school who helped them today. They share this with a partner and then draw a 'Thank You' card for that person.
How can we be good helpers in our classroom?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
Children might think the teacher is the only person in charge of the school.
The 'School Safari' is essential here. By physically meeting the principal or the secretary, children realize that the school is a team effort. This surfaces the idea of a community rather than a single authority.
Students may see rules as 'punishments' rather than helpful guides.
Use the 'Rule-Makers' role-play to show that rules solve problems. When children see that a rule makes a game fairer or the room quieter, they understand its positive purpose.
Methods used in this brief
Caring for my Environment
Children develop an appreciation for their immediate environment, including the classroom and school yard. They learn basic concepts of tidying up, recycling, and not littering.
8 methodologies
Media Awareness
Children begin to explore different types of media, such as books, television, and tablets. They discuss how to use screens safely and understand the difference between real and pretend.
8 methodologies