Literature can be instrumental in developing Social and Emotional learning. When students analyse the emotions of the characters of the book they are reading, they not only gain understanding of the text but also a greater understanding of their own emotions. It is therefore important to expose students to literature with diverse characters, situations and settings and help students see themselves and others in what they read.
Students of Grade 7, at Surana High Tech International School, Besant Nagar, launched a school-wide ‘Kindness Campaign’ during the course of reading American author, R.J. Palacio’s ‘Wonder’, which explores themes of empathy, friendship, acceptance and celebrating differences. The students began by brainstorming ideas for the campaign in their classroom. Working collaboratively, they designed engaging activities for their younger peers ranging from worksheets and class-wise visits during their break hours to raise awareness of the importance of kindness and empathy.
Integrating it with information and communication technology, they made kindness posters and a kindness logo for the school. This initiative not only united the school but also served as a platform to demonstrate the impact of literature on character development.
It is important that teachers plan their learning engagements to not just achieve the cognitive outcomes but also to develop non-cognitive competencies such as interpersonal interactions, perseverance, empathy and many other soft skills which shapes the overall personality of the students.
