The Recycling Bin It is important for the teacher to recognize that some students carry problems that can't be discarded. For example, some must return to situations of abuse and neglect. You can introduce your students to the Recycling Bin which, in their mind's eye, sits next to the Garbage Can. Students can be encouraged to see the Recycling Bin as a place where they might put garbage that they would like at some future time to "retrieve," to process with the teacher or another caring adult. The teacher may be able to assist the student in resolving the conflict or may refer the student to an appropriate professional. The image makes it possible to think of the good use to which "trash" can be put. We recycle something that does not serve us well in its present form in order to make it into something worthwhile. The image not only deals respectfully with student conflicts; it also allows students to either recognize that conflicts can produce positive benefits when dealt with in a constructive manner or, at least, to see that the negative consequences can be reduced. Developed by Anita Whitely, OSU, Ursuline Academy of Cleveland. CURRICULUM INDEX
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