Iditarod & Language Arts Integrations Presentation by Kimberly A. Harrick Part 2 Rockwood School District Ridge Meadows Elementary 777 Ridge Road Ellisville, Missouri 63021 e-mail: rmt15@rockwood.k12.mo.us

I d i t a r o d Opportunity The race teaches us how to seize an opportunity and the corresponding rewards. The volunteers and mushers have an avid interest in the outdoors and share a love of dogs and adventure. The race provides an opportunity for many who share these interests to actively pursue their passions. Each musher and team can count on hundreds of supporters. Someone who does not possess the interest or physical stamina to mush, can contribute by volunteering to handle the dogs, host mushers and volunteers, prepare meals or report and photograph the events of the day.

A chance for personal growth I d i t a r o d Opportunity A chance for personal growth or to meet a challenge.

I d i t a r o d Opportunity Select teams to read fiction and non-fiction books about the race and to research contributions volunteers provide throughout the race. The teams can report their findings to the class in a variety of ways, (commercial, skit, song, poem, interview, advertisement, want ad…etc.) Discuss the opportunities students have as citizens of their classroom, school, community, state and country. Take advantage of integrating career awareness and the opportunities students have to pursue their interests and utilize their skills in the workforce. (Only, a small percentage of athletes play professionally. However, there are many career opportunities associated with athletics, for example reporters, coaches, athletic trainers, equipment designers, advertisers, office managers are vital aspects of a successful team.) Recruit speakers to share related opportunities available in their field of expertise. Career fairs can help students explore new professions.

I d i t a r o d Dedication When we dedicate our mind, heart and body to a a goal, we ought not be disappointed in the outcome.

I d i t a r o d Dedication The act of committing one’s self to a particular course of thought or action.

I d i t a r o d Dedication Read A Big Mistake by Lenore Rinder. Explain that the character made a mistake. Emphasize everyone makes mistakes but it is what we do with our mistakes that makes us successful. Invite the children to turn a “mistake paper” into a masterpiece and display their work. As children are completing their picture, discuss other accomplishments that have come out of dedication and acceptance of mistakes that are made along their journey. For example, learning to ride a bike, walk, read, print, cursive or mastery of math facts. Other books that show determination are as follows: Tacky the Penguin Leo the Late Bloomer Santa’s Book of Names