More Muskoka

Here's a few more pictures from the Muskoka Woods Leadership Retreat for you. You guys were a great group. I'm looking forward to what you're capable of as the class continues.

What is a Trebuchet?

Building a Trebuchet.
Who can build a trebuchet that would an hurl a tennis ball towards the target?

Muskoka Woods Leadership Retreat

The Leadership Class had the opportunity to attend Muskoka Woods this October with the idea that they'd learn more about themselves and the classmates. When they arrived they were immediately engaged in games and activities that tested their wits, endurance, ingenuity, strength, intelligence and cooperation. All of these activities were designed to bring out the leadership skills and characteristics within each of the students.
Many students were challenged to do things that they were uncomfortable with and even scared to do. Most of the students conquered their fears and met each challenge with character and a smile.
As teachers we couldn't have been more proud.

This morning we played 'Rise of the Hassan', a great political game adapted from the corporate game 'Promises Promises'. It is designed to mimic the world of international politics, trade and finance. It she's a direct light on how we think, share and negotiate as humans in this world both internationally and locally.

What did the students learn about themselves? What did they learn about themselves as leaders?
How important is trust?

Muskoka Woods a couple of days away

We leave soon for Muskoka Woods. Pay very close attention in class on Tuesday so you'll know what to bring for the trip. You don't want to be unprepared while you're up there. You might be cold, wet, hungry or all three. Oh, by the way, your in your head assignments are due Tuesday too.

Beauty and the Beast

Monday we have the opportunity to hear from people who work in the entertainment industry. We have the priviledge of hearing from three people who work on the hit series Beauty and the Beast.
Doug McCullough the production designer, Tim Owen the Location Manager and Lori Fischburgh the Assistant Executive Producer will be coming in to talk about what they do and what they did to get to where they are. They will also be discussing the application of leadership in the working and entertainment world. It should be a very interesting discussion for the class.

Leadership Quote Posters

Today we started we working our leadership posters. remember to use your layouts from previous classes as your guide. Craftsmanship and content are important for your evaluation so be sure to take your time and do a good job. Think that the project needs to be visually appealing and carry your desired message.

Playing games

Playing games isn't always kids stuff, but it's always fun. Leadership can be demonstrated in a number of ways through game play. You don't have to lead the game to demonstrate leadership in a game. Your leadership can be seen in your encouragement, enthusiasm and your participation. It was evident to me that the games worked the best when everyone was involved and the enthusiasm was running high.

Leadership and Active Citizenship Quote

This was the work from Tuesday's class. Choose a leader and a quote. Explain why it's relevant.

Getting what you want.

In the last class we discussed how to get what you want. We talked about the process and the things you'll need to do but more importantly the things you need to sacrifice. We discussed making a plan and finding mentorship. See the images below:

TV Leaders

Today we looked at leaders in popular culture. We asked that you brainstorm leaders that you're familiar with from the entertainment world, sports and music.
You were to look at the character that they play, and that character's leadership qualities. See the images below:

Cooler - Closer or Cleaner

Which one are you? Are you a Cooler, a Closer or a Cleaner?
We discussed the characteristics of each. A Cooler is basically your average person who follows the crowd or waits for individuals to instruct or direct them.
A Closer is a person who will take charge, plot out a path and follow through until its finished.
A Cleaner is someone who instinctively finishes the job. They can rely on instinct because of all of the work that they've previously put it. They're the person that everyone looks to to take the last shot or to get things done.
We also discussed what to watch out for when you're working in groups or hanging with friends. See the images to jog your memory about the class and lessons.

Leadership administrative forms

Be sure that you have the appropriate forms signed and returned by their respective dates :
GPP course outline
Physical Education form - September 5th
Muskoka Woods form - September 20th 

Please make sure that all of the information for Muskoka woods is completely filled out and any forms and money is returned to Ms. Stephens by the 20th. 

Day one; Why are you in school?

Most of you have been in school for more than 11 years and how many times has anyone actually asked you why are you in school? Asking ourselves questions is how we think, and today we will be thinking about the question above.
It is critical that we have an environment of self-determination and that begins with defining why you're here in this classroom. Why did you make the choice to be here and what do you want out of this class?
Here are the three questions below: