I first heard about The Walking Classroom several years ago. From the moment I read about this program, I was hooked! This program has been a complete blessing for my students!
Two of my students are very low readers, and they are far below grade level. Although they have repeated a grade, they remain behind in reading. For them, The Walking Classroom has been a treasure — listening to the podcast puts them on the same playing field as their peers. Now these students happily contribute to our “share time” and join in the discussions after the walks.
I have another student with dyslexia, so reading presents a challenge. However, listening to the podcasts allows the student a chance to comprehend the information without the frustrations of having to dig through a difficult text.
Possibly the greatest benefit though has been for my two students with autism. These two do not struggle with academics, but with basic communication and socialization. The Walking Classroom has been a tremendous thing for them to experience. It gives these students an opportunity to choose a walking partner, share facts learned with friends, and also participate in a common group activity.
Listening to Idioms (Complete-#3, 4-#7, 5-#3) especially benefitted these students. While we understand “raining cats and dogs” as figurative language, students with autism will look to the sky to see if animals come falling from the clouds. This podcast opened up a whole conversation about the use of figurative language!
The Walking Classroom has meant much to me and my students! We enjoy our walks and podcasts so very much, and we look forward to even more chances to get outside and enjoy the program!
Julie Hammer
3rd Grade Teacher
Pisgah Elementary
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