How can Piggie and Gerald help fifth graders build community?
September 30, 2020 | Elizabeth Rachuri
Do you remember reading Mo Willems’ Elephant and Piggie books to your children? I’ve had the pleasure of beginning this experience with my toddler over the past few months!
It may sound odd, but I’ve been reading these Piggie and Gerald books to fifth graders this year. Yes, fifth graders. We are using these stories as a way to connect and develop our class covenant.
As we read, many students fondly recall these stories from their younger years. Students crane their necks to see the illustrations and laugh along with me at Piggie and Gerald’s latest antics.
We quickly found that these fun books are full of advice to fifth graders for developing and maintaining a peaceful and supportive community. For example:
I am Invited to a Party reminds us to be prepared and trust our friends.
Today I Will Fly encourages us to ask for help.
I Really Like Slop implores us to be open-minded and not to overreact.
And the list goes on.
Ask your child what they learned from Piggie and Gerald this week!
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