Synthesizing with Nesting Monkeys!

If you've been following my blog for a bit, you probably already know how much I love Comprehension Connections by Tanny McGregor, because I rave about it constantly, and I use a lot of her ideas in my classroom!  I just love how fun and tangible the lessons are!  This is another example.  Brace yourselves for a whole lot of cuteness.

Tanny is a huge advocate of concrete experiences.  She recommends launching a study of synthesizing with nesting dolls, and let's face it, they are adorable.  So how does it work?  You pull them out and ask the kids, "How could these nesting dolls represent your thinking?"  (Yes, it's open ended, but generally, because of its complexity, synthesis is taught later in the year.  If you already incorporate concrete models consistently within your classroom, the kids will rise to the challenge.)  Expect responses like, "I grow and change and so does my thinking" or "Big ideas are built on lots of little ideas."  Then, after the initial questioning, you put the dolls together for your students.  The largest doll stands alone, with the smaller dolls nestled inside.  This can lead to another discussion of the symbolism and what it means.  If necessary, point it out.  During the study, leave out the nesting dolls as an anchor to the learning that occurred.   If your kids are familiar with the ripple symbolism of synthesizing and how ideas start out small and get larger or change, start with that, then introduce the nesting dolls.  Cute, huh?

Well, I have begged, borrowed, and browsed for a while.  I finally have secured my own little nesting dolls, and I am beyond pumped, because they are the quirkiest little sock monkeys!  They are durable... plastic... and adorable!  They were only $9.99 at Target!  Take it from someone who searched forever for cute nesting dolls that wouldn't break the bank, this is a steal!  (If you have any questions about how synthesizing is taught or how to utilize nesting monkeys in your classroom, feel free to leave questions!  I'd be happy to address them!)

Now... for the moment you've all been waiting for...

I use The Littlest Matryshka by Corinne Demas Bliss when I teach this lesson to tie in a little literature and play up on the symbolism.  You can pick up a copy or read reviews HERE!