March 2019 SOLC–Day 27
A huge thank you to Two Writing Teachers for all that they do to create an amazing community of writers and a safe, welcoming space to write, learn, share and grow.
http://www.twowritingteachers.org
Sometimes we manage to grab a little bit of time at the end of the day for a community circle. I often pose a question and we send around a talking piece, taking turns answering whenever we get the piece. I’ll pose questions like, “What’s your favorite flavor of ice cream?” or “If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why?” Sometimes students contribute ideas for questions.
One day not too long ago, we gathered at the carpet.
“Ok,” I asked. “Would you rather eat a worm or an ant?”
After the initial hubbub died down, I responded first, “Ant.” Then I passed the talking piece, pretty sure that “ant” would be the dominant response.
The next student asked for some clarification. “Is it raw or cooked?”
I hadn’t been expecting that, but answered decisively. “Raw.”
“Darn,” he said. “Well, I guess ….. ant.”
We continued around the circle. I was fascinated by the additional clarifying questions and the rationales behind different choices.
“I think I’ll choose an ant, because probably I’ve already eaten some and didn’t even know it,” said one student.
“Do you have to chew it?” asked another. “Or can you swallow it whole?”
Hmmmm…That was a tough one. After some discussion, we decided no chewing was required.
“I think I’ll swallow the worm then,” she responded. “Without chewing!”
“I would definitely swallow the worm,” said the next student. “I’d just slurp it down like a piece of spaghetti.”
“Ew!” we all chorused.
In the end, much to my surprise, the class was pretty evenly divided. I’m still sticking with my choice. Definitely an ant.
Which would you choose?
Nix the comfort zone 
I love this! We play Would you Rather in class meeting all the time and without fail they always ask clarifying questions. You captured this moment beautifully. Something so simple… becomes less so. And my answer… ANT!
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We had a very interesting discussion about walking over hot coals or nails recently, too. lol It’s such an interesting window into how they’re thinking. They’re always looking for the loopholes!
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Ew to both, LOL! I so love what happens in your classroom, Leigh Anne!
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I of course meant to say that I love what happens in your class, Molly! Leigh Anne was in my brain from the post before. Sorry, friend!
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Actually, that totally cracked me up! I was like…hmmm…this challenge is really messing with Christie! I thought I was in bad shape! LOL….no problem, friend!
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What a fun moment that must have been in your room–I can hear the laughter and giggling as you all discuss your answers! Thank you for sharing!
And, ant…dead, raw, without chewing, and with a HUGE glass of water!!! 🙂
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I only wish we could have end-of-the-day community circles every day!
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Oh, 100% ant. We used to play this game at the dinner table with our kids, but it’s been a while since I offered up a choice. This might be tomorrow’s discussion. In the meantime, it might be time for you to read How to Eat Fried Worms to your class. So. gross.
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I remember the title from my childhood, but I’m not sure if I ever read it. I’ll have to add it to the stack! I imagine my class would love it!
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Too funny! I love how nonsense reveals what interesting people your students are.
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I love those kinds of moments with kids! I know ant would be my answer. We ate crickets last year in the classroom…you can’t debate whether insects are a viable food source without tasting! (You can order them right on Amazon!)
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I want to be in your classroom! I’m not really interested in eating a cricket, but I’m sure interested in the dynamic, engaging environment you foster!
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We play a similar game at the library called “This or That” and the kids loving make the choices! And for the record, I’d probably go with ant!
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No brainer, right? lol
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What a fun idea! I too would choose the ant. A worm is too slippery. It is interesting to hear what different kids focused on.
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The idea of a worm in my mouth is horrifying. Shiver!
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Did anyone not make a choice? My question would be, “How much would you have to be paid to eat an ant?”
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