Teaching kids the values is very intentional in the Philippines. You might think children acquire those through religious education or practice. It is definitely true, but here I am talking about public schools. In fact, values integration is a part of each lesson, which is recorded in the lesson plan. I realize some people may be skeptical as to what extent lesson plan components are implemented. But, believe me, having observed 5 classes today, I have witnessed values implementation in every one of them.
My day started with a lovely 7th grade glass. Besides the reading and discussion of the parable of the Good Samaritan, I saw this example of figurative language on the board.
My day started with a lovely 7th grade glass. Besides the reading and discussion of the parable of the Good Samaritan, I saw this example of figurative language on the board.
The Philippines makes me think. How hard is it to make this work in the US or other places? Does it take much time or effort to rise when a teacher or other adult walks into the room? Does it cost anything to wish someone a good morning and smile? We have spent just 2 days in JRU, but almost every student takes time to stop, wish us good morning or afternoon, smile, or at least wave their hand.
When kids are positively conditioned in every class, at home, in the community, it is no wonder they internalize the values they are taught. They live the values. No one wants to be bad; everyone wants to be good. Parents don't want their children to be bad. Then, why aren't we strategic about teaching them those values in each and every lesson, or making a separate learning target for it? At the end of the day, we need to be the Good Samaritans to those left on the side of the road unable to go on.