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TEAM/Advisory
At
the American school of Kuwait, all middle school
students begins their day in Team. One teacher is
assigned to a group of students at each grade level
for the entire year. Team meets for forty five
minutes each morning.
Our goal is to connect the Team program to the
central mission of the school, as well as create a
structure that facilitates productive relationships
between teacher and student as well as student and
student. We begin the year with get-to-know-you
activities and a Team Spirit Assembly where students
work together to create a name, banner and chant.
During Team, students prepare and get organized for
the day and week. Team teachers check student blue
books (the planner provided by the school) and keep
students up-to-date on activities, meetings and
other information. Team teachers also work with
students on their Growth and Learning Portraits. The
Portrait is a binder of reflective worksheets and
accompanying pieces of work that requires students
to relate their experiences and learning to the
school’s mission and core values. In March, students
share their Growth and Learning Portraits with their
parents at Student Led Conferences.
This year, grades six and eight are participating in
the Reading Buddies program with Elementary classes.
This successful program is a bonus for both older
and younger students as it helps develop each one in
different ways. Older students develop confidence,
leadership and pride in relating to and helping a
younger student. Younger students benefit from
one-on-one reading activities.
Throughout the year, students will take part in
activities that may be school-wide or grade level
specific. On some Wednesdays the middle school meets
for an all school assembly for student of the month
recognition and other purposes.
At the end of each quarter, students meet with the
Team teacher to fill out their Team Report. Unlike a
report card, there is no grade. The report targets
development in areas such as behavior and attitude,
teamwork, leadership, goal-setting, problem-solving
and communication and listening skills again
reinforcing our school’s mission and core values.
The checklist provides information about where the
student and teacher see their development in each
area on a continuum from emerging to strong.
Growth and Learning Portrait Indicators
Act with Integrity
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I will treat others, regardless of position or
background, with respect, honesty and dignity.
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I will work cooperatively and collaboratively in
a group.
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I will be responsible for myself and my actions.
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I will seek opportunities to contribute to the
ASK community and society as a whole.
Think Critically
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I will exhibit intellectual curiosity through
inquiry, purposeful research, and reflection.
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I will think critically, logically, and
creatively to solve problems.
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I will know my learning profile and use a
variety of learning strategies.
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I will reflect on life choices, gain knowledge,
and then make informed decisions about leading a
healthy and well-balanced lifestyle.
Strive for Excellence
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I will be responsible for my growth and learning
and challenge myself through ASK’s curricular
program.
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I will demonstrate understanding of the
knowledge and skills from all disciplines.
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I will be able to communicate openly and
effectively for a better understanding.
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I will proficiently use media and technology for
personal and academic growth.
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