Grade 1: Interviewing Through Campus

Grade 1 students have been learning about active listening and asking questions through interviews. The unit began with students being curious at home, asking family members questions about their hobbies, childhood experiences, and likes and dislikes. To expand the lesson, Grade 1 teachers invited members of Graland’s faculty and staff to be interviewed by the first graders, as well. Mrs. Lisa Schreiner, Grade 1 teacher, loves the communal aspect of such an activity. “This is one of the most fun activities we do with the students because it involves other faculty and staff,” Mrs. Schreiner said. “It’s also neat because it carries over when the kids bump into people they’ve interviewed, so it helps them feel part of the greater Graland community.” Not only does this activity build community within Graland, but it also teaches students invaluable conversational skills that will help them build relationships outside of Graland, as well. Ms. Kieffer Williams, Director of Admissions, noticed how thoughtful the Grade 1 students were when she was being interviewed. “What I appreciated most about the interview was how the kids asked such thoughtful follow-up questions,” Mrs. Williams said. “It’s really representative of how students are learning active listening skills in class, which will help them engage and communicate with others.”