If you were a fifth grader, what would you fight for: No Homework Day or Extra Recess?
That’s the question RJB students took seriously during a lively “Campaign Rally,” where they made thoughtful, persuasive cases for the issue they believed would most improve school life. With passion, research, and a surprising dose of strategy, they demonstrated that the topics most important to pre-teens deserve a real voice too.
The event was part of the IB Unit for How We Organize Ourselves, and campaigners delivered well-developed arguments to show how systems, rules, and collective decisions shape a community. Supported by posters, digital presentations, and even a musical rap, fifth graders used their voices to influence the outcome—perfectly embodying this month’s IB Learner Profile trait, Communicators. GCSD teachers intentionally weave IB Learner Profile traits into everyday instruction, helping students practice these skills through real experiences rather than as occasional lessons.
Candidates were nominated by classmates based on the strength of their initial arguments, aligning directly with the fifth-grade social studies unit on government in the Western Hemisphere. Students learned how people advocate for change, build support, and participate in democratic systems.
Some arguments stood out for their insight and persuasion. One student campaigning for Extra Recess made the case that a longer break would mean a full 45 minutes to relax and spend time with friends - time they can’t always find after school, especially since “parents usually give homework anyway!”
“This IB Unit explores how systems work—whether it’s rules in the classroom, jobs in a workplace, or ways families help each other,” said IB Coordinator Cassandra Buckhout. “We wanted to create an activity that connects to real elections. It’s a perfect fit and a fun way for students to engage in the democratic process.”
After listening closely to each speech, students returned to their classrooms to cast ballots. Before they voted, Ms. Buckhout reminded them, “You’ve listened to their reasoning and arguments. Take the time to think about your decision; you have a say in what’s best for your grade.”
When ballots were counted, the winner was clear: Extra Recess won by a landslide—120 votes to 19. The rally energized the grade and provided a hands-on example of how systems, structures, and shared decision-making play a role in everyday life, both inside and beyond the classroom.