Academics and More Developing financial literacy
Nope, not that mole created a computer slideshow. "Not a lot of people know about the mole as a unit of measurement," says one student. "It’s not just this ugly animal that digs up your yard." But the critter does make an excellent visual takeaway. Each group designed and sewed a stuffed mole, employing two basic sewing stiches and their creativity. This year, some were dressed as a farmer, genie, wizard, princess and basketball player. The latter ties to one group’s presentation: "A mole of basketballs could make a planet the size of the earth."
RIVERDALE GRADE SCHOOL – For those who have forgotten their chemistry studies, a mole is a unit used to measure atoms and molecules. Teacher Jill Leve has a unique way of reinforcing the concept for all of her 8th grade students – by asking them to present their research to another grade and leave behind a cuddly surprise. A mole is equal to 6.02 x 1023. How can you illustrate that for younger students who have no concept of that math? It was quite a challenge for the group selected to present to preschoolers. They opted for a skit with costumes, while most
Above: A few of the hand-sewn moles.
RIVERDALE HIGH SCHOOL – For everyone who’s ever said personal finance should be taught in high schools, you’re not alone. That’s why non-profit Financial Beginnings sends financial industry professionals into high schools to lead free financial literacy workshops. And why Riverdale has made this program a part of the curriculum this year. So far, sophomores and seniors have explored banking, budgeting and credit. Throughout the spring, they’ll dive into investing and risk management. Juniors explored career/education paths, along with financing college. Next they’ll address managing debt accumulation, interest, credit, investing and managing risk. Students have been quite receptive to the lessons and resource materials, which are designed to help them achieve their financial and life goals. "They've been great!" says junior Devin Chek, who adds that high school students have been asking for classes about money, and how to manage it. "I have a new understanding and appreciation for how important it is to know about finance," says junior Catherine Armstrong.
Tootling vs. tattling RIVERDALE GRADE SCHOOL – Tootling is all the rage in the 3rd grade classrooms. It may sound like a funny word, but the impact is quite serious. "We are discussing the importance of tootling, which means noticing the positive things our peers are doing instead of focusing on the negative," says teacher Lauren Howley, who created a board in the hallway where her students can write down their tootles and post them for others to see. "They LOVE it!" Each morning the class discusses the importance of
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recognizing kindness, as well as noticing positive words and actions. Examples of tootles include: • "Chloe picked up a banana peel on the soccer field." • "Imrie cheered me up when I was feeling sad." • "Rowan shared her snack with me when I didn't have one." • "Omar was reading silently when everyone else was talking." Passing by? Other students and staff are invited to add a tootle to the board.
Riverdale Review
