I have learned (through collecting data with the Turning Technology Audience Response Systems - 'clickers') that the students in Kindergarten, 1st and 2nd grades appear to struggle with the difference between the meanings of tattling and telling.
So during my classroom lessons, we are concentrating on the following ideas:
Telling means that someone is hurt or needs help; the situation is a BIG deal; I have tried to solve the problem on my own but it isn't working; it is a RIGHT NOW problem
Tattling means that someone may have done or said something that I do not like and I didn't ask them to stop or tell them how I feel; I haven't tried solving the problem on my own first; it is a NOT NOW problem; I just am having a bad day and want to get someone into trouble; no one is hurt or in danger; the problem has nothing to do with me
The books we are reading or have read that support this topic:
Don't Squeal Unless it is a Big Deal
A Bad Case of Tattle Tongue
Here are a few video clips that may help support these ideas, as well:
Thank You for your support! I am sure you may struggle with this topic from time to time at home, as well!
