Being a Communicator
The ability to communicate comes in many forms. We set out on life's journey communicating through sounds and expression. Eventually we develop the ability to speak and learn to ask a lot of questions and listen carefully to the answers. The complexity of communication continues to develop as we grow and we are fortunate to experience it in many ways.
The International Baccalaureate identifies being a communicator as "expressing oneself confidently and creatively in more than one language and with respect for the dignity and rights of people everywhere."
At Scotch we develop communication skills through our enriched and balanced curriculum. In Literacy we teach the children to read and write. Through the Arts we educate the children to express themselves in a creative manner and to develop their confidence, often being a risk-taker. Through Sport they get to communicate their physical side and through French they are provided the opportunity to communicate in a different language.
"We are stronger when we listen, and smarter when we share."
On their own, these are fine opportunities to develop the skill of communication, however, through inquiry it is truly enhanced. The boys learn to question and challenge, to share their thoughts and ideas and to agree and disagree. They learn to respect the opinions of others and how to defend their own. Inquiry affords them the opportunity to take stance, formulate an argument and to take action. The addition of inquiry to our pedagogy adds another dimension to the development of this essential skill.
Our boys have many opportunities to communicate and collaborate at Scotch. In Week 8 and 9 we will exhibit the communication skills of our boys in two special celebrations. In Week 8 the Scotch College Inspirations Art Exhibition will open on Wednesday 11 September from 6:00 to 8:00pm. It will remain open for viewing until Friday 13 September. The exhibition will showcase examples of the outstanding art experiences the boys have had this years and allow them to communicate their learning and feelings. While we will not be able to display art from all of our students, we will provide an excellent sample of what our boys have produced this year. On Wednesday 18 September will see the Year 5 PYP Exhibition. This is the culminating experience of their Junior School journey and will showcase the boys' learning through inquiry and the action they have taken. I hope families will join us for these two special events.
Mr John Stewart
Head of Junior School
