the knowledge market

After a first viewing, ask the children to tell the story, to describe what they saw. Then ask for their opinions and let them share their views on the behaviour of the various characters. What did they feel? How would they have reacted in the main character's place? And in the place of the other characters? What should we do if we find ourselves faced with this situation? Students may have personal experiences to share; now is the time to talk about it and realise that how we behave matters to others.

Building on these discussions, we can set up activities that get children to share, to show their strengths, and to respect one another.

We could then suggest that they set up a knowledge market. This market is a kind of fair in which the students offer an activity that the others can then try and learn. They take a fully active role and have to prepare everything. They will have to choose their partners and their activity, and list the equipment they need. The students will have to organize and cooperate in order to set up their stand. They must define exactly what will be shown and offered, and how long it will take, as well as the equipment they will need. Ask them to make a poster for visitors. During all these stages, the teacher will help, give feedback, and make sure the activity is workable. All this preparation will be an opportunity to work across different subjects. On market day, the students will help each other set up. Then the long-awaited moment will come when they will be able to show their skills, try the activities offered by the others. Find out more with le Petit abécédaire de l'école by Bruce Demaugé-Bost and with Craie hâtive.