Friday, May 11, 2007

A Blog about a Frog


Every teacher has to take a turn doing chapel at school. Today was Josh's day to be in charge-teaching a lesson to the K-5th graders. We decided about a month ago to focus on the fruits of the spirit, and thought it would be memorable to attach a live animal example to each fruit. So, we asked Josh's class which animals they have as pets, then I researched each one and attributed it to a fruit of the Spirit. Granted, many of the traits are oversimplified. We just wanted something unique so kids remember each fruit. For example: dogs=love. We used our dog Carmelo as the example and told how even when we get mad and punish him, he still wags his tail and is happy to see us- giving us unconditional love.

We got rolling right along, and went through the leopard gecko representing gentleness due to their gentle disposition, and the rabbit that stood for goodness (It was the one of the only pets Lincoln would let into the White House). The turtles were next representing patience, followed by a snake for peace. Then we got to the frog.

Opening the net top, one of the fourth graders went to grab the frog and it leaped onto another fourth grade girl. She, of course, screamed bloody murder. It hopped around a couple more times, leading to more screaming and running from the frog. Scrambling for the frog, the owner finally caught it. Just as soon, it slipped free again.... hopping straight for the kindergarten class. You guessed it- mass pandemonium. Kids screaming, jumping out of their seats, running around frightened. Finally, Mrs. Wells caught the frog and put it back inside the bucket.

So, what did the frog stand for, you ask? Self Control. (Frogs are excellent swimmers, but if they do not have the control to go to land for a break, they will drown.) So much for that fruit. I guarantee every kid in that place will never forget what frogs stand for though!

5 comments:

Triplet Mom said...

Ahh leading chapels. I would always get so nervous. Nothing like an escaping frog to liven things up! Excellent creativity from the Birds.

Katie said...

I bet they won't forget that one :)

Anonymous said...

That was excellent creativity! We have a leopard gecko and he definitely is a gentle, little fella...Even when Austin "pets" him too hard.

Sonny Huisman said...

Nothing like a good "hands on" lesson for the kids . . . object lessons are the ones that stick! Very creative! That's why we have Josh teaching Stepping Stones! The kids love him! You guys make a great team!

MiniMe Mom said...

Nicole, that is the first time I had ever seen a leopard gecko. They are so cute!

Thanks for the kudos. We have so much fun with the 4th graders. Every year I think I won't like the next class as well, but I always do. I am fortunate to be a part of it.