Year-end activities https://www.morningsidecenter.org/ en Activities to End the Year https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/activities-end-year <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>Activities to End the Year</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Looking for ways to help students reflect on the past year?&nbsp; Ways to deal with spring fever?&nbsp; Activities and games to celebrate the community you've built over the past months?&nbsp; Here are some activities you might consider to close out the school year and prepare students to transition into the summer and the year to come.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-working-students-excess-energy-spring-fever">SEL Tip: Working with Students’ Excess Energy (Spring Fever)</a>&nbsp;<br> During the last few weeks of school, we and our students often struggle to stay focused. And yet there is still work to be done. Try these steps to keep students engaged (and yourself sane) as summer approaches.<br> &nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-managing-worries-about-transition">SEL Tip: &nbsp;Managing Worries about Transition</a><br> For many students, the close of the school year comes with anxiety about the transitions ahead. Try these strategies to help you and your students address those anxieties in a positive way. &nbsp;&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/circle-end-year">A Circle to End the Year</a><br> Students reflect on the school year through a guided visualization, Circle, and community-building activity.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/activities-close-school-year">Activities to Close the School Year</a><br> Five activities use different methodologies to help you and your students reflect on the year and look ahead to next year. &nbsp; &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>Sara Carrero</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2021-05-18T11:06:24-04:00" title="Tuesday, May 18, 2021 - 11:06">May 18, 2021</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Tue, 18 May 2021 15:06:24 +0000 Sara Carrero 1590 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org SEL Tip:  Managing Worries about Transition https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-managing-worries-about-transition <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>SEL Tip:  Managing Worries about Transition</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>No matter how welcoming and positive a classroom community you’ve established over the course of the year, students may struggle with the thought of the school year coming to an end. They may feel discomfort or stress about the unknowns of the year to come —from new teachers and classmates to new content or schedules, a new school, new friends, or even a post-school environment, if students are graduating from high school. Change is hard, especially for students who struggle socially and emotionally.</p> <p>For some of our students, the thought of summer itself can be distressing in that summer may lack the structure, routines, and safety provided by school. Daily access to friends, food, and supportive, caring adults may not be available to some of our students over the summer months.&nbsp;</p> <p>For all these reasons, students may act out and struggle to be present and learn during these last weeks of school. Being aware of student worries can help us be intentional about how we wrap up the school year, acknowledging that our students may have a lot on their minds.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Be proactive:</strong><br> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Revisit classroom norms</u> on a regular basis throughout the school year. When you notice students struggle with your classroom norms, make time to explore what’s going on. What norms are hard to follow? &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;What’s getting in the way? &nbsp;Did anything change? &nbsp;How can we work together to maintain a positive classroom community? &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Try mindful awareness practice</u>. Mindfulness works best when it’s been practiced throughout the year, so that it can function as an anchor and buffer when tough times arise. Research shows that a regular mindful practice can trigger hormones that relieve stress and anxiety, while improving our mood, self-awareness, mental concentration, and emotional self-regulation. A few minutes several times a week can make a world of difference, especially when stressful times arise.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Pave the Way for Transitions:</strong><br> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Practice gratitude</u>. Invite students to make cards or write thank you notes to some of the people who’ve made a difference in their school year. This practice is beneficial for those receiving the gratitude as well as for those giving it. Regular gratitude practice is known to rewire the brain, impacting our outlook and mood in positive ways.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Look ahead</u>. Engage your students in discussions around what next year may bring: the possibilities and hopes of a new grade, school or life as well as the concerns or fears that may bring. Consider sharing of yourself to set the stage. &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Acknowledge students’ feelings</u>, no matter what they are. &nbsp;Feelings are real, we can’t undo them, but we can acknowledge them, and in naming them, we can tame them.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Address obstacles</u>. As students think ahead to the summer/next year, invite them to consider the obstacles they may face. &nbsp;Then problem solve together how they might face their struggles and, where possible, overcome their obstacles. &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Consider supports</u>. Have students think about where they draw their strength from—external support systems as well as internal wells. Have them reflect on and possibly share out the times they overcame challenges or hardship. &nbsp;What supports did they draw on? What other supports do they have in their lives? &nbsp;How might they build a stronger system of support? Who might they reach out to? How?</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Help others</u>. Ask students to write letters of support to the students moving into their grade. Encourage them to think back to the start of the school year. What would be useful tips and information for younger students moving into the grade?</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Reconnect with community:</strong><br> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Connect with students</u>. Check in with your students, not just over academics but find out how they’re doing overall. Connections are the foundation of any learning community. For students who are struggling, a quick check in and acknowledgement of where they’re at can help. If you have time, follow up and invite them to talk later about what might be bothering them. You don’t have to be a therapist to provide the healing power of good listening and connection. &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <ul> <li><u>Connect with colleagues</u>. When we feel tired or overwhelmed ourselves, it’s easy to close our doors and retreat into our own classrooms, when the opposite might provide the recharge we need. Connecting to the community at large, or just with a colleague you trust, can help us get through the day or week. &nbsp;Maybe plan to have lunch together one day this week, or bring in an extra cup of coffee that you can share before school starts.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>We, like our students, can benefit from strategies ranging from relaxation techniques and gratitude practice, to connecting with and helping others. By supporting each other, we can make a smoother transition into summer and the new year.&nbsp;</p> <p><br> &nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>Sara Carrero</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2019-06-10T14:48:45-04:00" title="Monday, June 10, 2019 - 14:48">June 10, 2019</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Mon, 10 Jun 2019 18:48:45 +0000 Sara Carrero 1333 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org SEL Tip: Working with Students’ Excess Energy (Spring Fever) https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-working-students-excess-energy-spring-fever <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>SEL Tip: Working with Students’ Excess Energy (Spring Fever)</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>Summer is just around the corner. &nbsp;Testing season is wrapping up and we’re in the home stretch. &nbsp;With just a few weeks left, many of us are exhausted, low on energy and patience. &nbsp;And yet there is still work to be done.&nbsp;</p> <p>At the same time, student restlessness is increasing. &nbsp;It’s a perfect storm as young people infected with spring fever may once more start testing behavioral limits, the way they did the first weeks of school.</p> <p>Here are some strategies for channeling students’ energy - and rallying our own:</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Challenge students to do independent work on topics that draw on their personal interests.</strong> &nbsp;With spring energy levels boosted, due to longer days and more exposure to sunlight, students tend to be more curious and motivated. &nbsp;Consider having students choose the topic they want to research, sparking their natural instincts to explore and stretch themselves.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Introduce special classroom projects that are hands-on, collaborative, out of the box and fun.</strong> Break out the art supplies and encourage creativity. But make sure to hold on to classroom routines and structures, which students need. Too much change and upheaval can feed their spring fever and make them a bit too goofy.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Revisit <a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-start-year-community-agreements">classroom norms</a> throughout the year to encourage the practice of reflection. </strong>This will prove useful when students struggle with end-of-year changes and transitions.&nbsp;</p> <p>When you notice student behavior is off, make time to explore what’s going on. Ask them:</p> <ul> <li>What norms have we been doing well with/gotten better at?</li> <li>What norms have been hard to follow? &nbsp;Why? &nbsp;</li> <li>What is getting in the way? &nbsp;</li> <li>Did anything change? What? What is the impact?</li> <li>How can we work together to maintain a positive classroom community?&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>Be mindful around norms when schedules change because of speakers, field trips, town halls, celebrations and other special end-of-year projects or events. &nbsp;For students who struggle with change, reminders are useful, but exploration, interactive modeling, and role-playing ahead of time can help develop actual behaviors and the understanding of why norms are important. &nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Give students time and tools to reflect on their school year. </strong>Consider doing this through a writing exercise, a <a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/circle-end-year">restorative circle</a> or <a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/poem-reflect-year">two</a>, a collage, (spoken word) poetry, skits, a multimedia or other kind of art project that students can share with each other. &nbsp;</p> <p>Questions to consider for these projects include: &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>What stood out for you about the year? &nbsp;</li> <li>What did you learn?&nbsp;</li> <li>What did you struggle with?&nbsp;</li> <li>How did you overcome your challenges? &nbsp;</li> <li>What made you proud? &nbsp;</li> <li>What, given a chance, might you have done differently?&nbsp;</li> <li>How did you change/grow?&nbsp;</li> <li>What are you taking into next year with you?</li> <li>What questions do you have about next year? &nbsp;Concerns?</li> <li>What advice do you have for students entering your grade next year? &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>Consider scaffolding the activity by a) sharing your own reflections on the year, as you model the activity, or b) inviting students in pair shares or microlabs to share their reflections on the year, before turning to their own reflection project in whatever format makes sense.</p> <p>And when all else fails, take a deep breath and remember: The end of the year is in sight!<br> &nbsp;</p> <p class="MsoNormal"><o:p></o:p></p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>Sara Carrero</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2019-06-10T14:36:47-04:00" title="Monday, June 10, 2019 - 14:36">June 10, 2019</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Mon, 10 Jun 2019 18:36:47 +0000 Sara Carrero 1332 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org SEL Tip: Reducing Stress at Testing Time https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-reducing-stress-testing-time <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>SEL Tip: Reducing Stress at Testing Time</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>As May and June roll around, we educators are in the homestretch. Summer is just around the corner.&nbsp; And yet it’s also testing season, which doesn’t allow us to unwind, just yet.</p> <p>The pressure is on, and stress is everywhere. Not just the moderate amounts of stress that can push our students to be more focused, pay attention, and perform better, but also the overwhelming and debilitating stress provoked by high stakes testing in particular. And we know stress is contagious. What’s more, many educators have their own worries about test results and are already running on empty at this time of year. It’s an unhealthy mix.</p> <p>The following strategies may help both you and your students unwind and boost your batteries to make it through the end of the year intact.<br> &nbsp;</p> <h4>Create a calming environment</h4> <ul> <li>Let in light and air. Open the shades and flood your classroom with light. Consider cracking open those windows to let in some fresh air as well.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Get some greenery. Consider bringing fresh flowers or a plant into your classroom. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.ciphr.com/advice/plants-in-the-office/">According to studies</a>, greenery can reduce fatigue, stress, anxiety, and promote well-being, performance and improve memory retention. In addition, caring for a plant can be a perfect project for a student who seems disconnected or detached. It can teach responsibility and gives students an added incentive to come to class.<br> &nbsp;</li> </ul> <h4>Take care of yourself</h4> <ul> <li>Go out and take a stroll: Being outdoors, especially in green areas, can help reduce stress and increase overall well-being. And physical activity has been shown to produce endorphins, natural painkillers that can also improve sleep, reduce stress, and improve our focus, thinking, and memory.<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>Eat well: Faculty rooms at this time of year can be full of donuts, cookies, pizza and other unhealthy “comfort” foods left over from school events. These foods can make us feel lethargic. Snacking on fruits and vegetables can reenergize us instead.<br> &nbsp;</li> <li><a href="https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/sel-tip-teach-deep-breathing">Don’t forget to breathe</a>! Take a beat, take a few deep breaths, especially as you walk into a stressful space or situation. Deep breathing can counteract the body’s stress response. Regular breath breaks are a helpful response to the many stressors at school.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</li> </ul> <h4>Practice mindfulness</h4> <p>Consider practicing mindful awareness with your students throughout the year, so that you have a buffer when testing and other stressful times come around.&nbsp; Mindfulness is the ability to be fully present in the moment. Research shows that a regular mindful practice can trigger hormones that relieve stress and anxiety, while improving our mood, self-awareness, mental concentration, and emotional self-regulation. A few minutes of mindful breathing meditation (or practices such as yoga and tai chi), several times a week, can make a noticeable difference, especially during stressful times.<br> &nbsp;</p> <h4>Try positive affirmations</h4> <p>As we slow down, breathe deeply, relax, and become more aware of our thoughts and feelings, we can also learn to take charge of our thoughts in ways that can help us improve our performance. Research tell us that our thoughts are as real to the brain as what’s happening in our outer lives. This is one reason why positive affirmations can be so effective. Affirmations work best when you:</p> <ul> <li>use the present tense and the first person (as in, “I am calm now”)</li> <li>frame them in the positive (instead of “I’m not going to fail this time,”&nbsp; try “I’ve got this”)</li> <li>speak them as if they are fact and truth (no mights, shoulds, or coulds)</li> <li>repeat them confidently to yourself multiple times a day, especially before going to sleep or right before a test&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>You can reinforce positive affirmations with physical touch. Tap the back of your hand, gently caress your arm or apply pressure to your temples as you state your affirmation. &nbsp;Consider positive affirmations that have four syllables (e.g. “I can do this,”&nbsp; “I am ready,” “I am calm now,” etc.) so that you can squeeze your thumb and fingers together one syllable at a time, from your index finger, through your pinky, several times over.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> <h4>Foster positive interactions</h4> <p>Finally, we can help reduce stress by engaging in positive interactions and encouraging them between students. Experts recommend a ratio of five positive interactions to counteract each negative interaction, because <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2012/03/24/your-money/why-people-remember-negative-events-more-than-positive-ones.html">negative emotions</a> tend to involve more thinking than positive emotions, and invite rumination. Making an intentional effort to connect with colleagues and students in positive ways can help us better handle this stressful time in the school year.</p> <p>And if this list of strategies for reducing stress is stressing you out, pick just one idea that you feel drawn to and commit to practicing it in the weeks ahead.&nbsp; See how it makes you feel.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p><img alt="Reducing Stress Graphic" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="21560e76-a6d5-4494-9dd3-0824884a2cda" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Reducing%20Stress%20at%20Testing%20Time.png" width="3300" height="3720" loading="lazy"></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>Laura McClure</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2019-05-22T08:52:55-04:00" title="Wednesday, May 22, 2019 - 08:52">May 22, 2019</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Wed, 22 May 2019 12:52:55 +0000 Laura McClure 1326 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org Group reflections to end the school year https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/group-reflections-end-school-year <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>Group reflections to end the school year</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p>The activities below are geared to a restorative circle process, but can easily be adjusted to fit different class and advisory formats. Just take the essence of the circles and adapt it to fit how you work with your students.</p> <p>For more information about restorative circles, see our <a href="http://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/introduction-circles">introduction to circles</a> on TeachableMoment.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4>&nbsp;</h4> <h4>Opening Ceremony:<br> Mindfulness Moment<br> &nbsp;</h4> <p>Introduce a mindful breathing activity to center students and transition them into the circle space.&nbsp; Read the following meditation out loud ... slowly ... pausing at the end of each line ...</p> <ul> <li>Get comfortable in your seat.</li> <li>Sit up straight.</li> <li>Put both feet down, soles&nbsp;connecting to the floor.</li> <li>Rest your hands in your lap.</li> <li>If comfortable for you, close your eyes, or, if you prefer, find a spot on the floor in front of you to gently rest your gaze.&nbsp;</li> <li>Sit strong like a mountain, tall like a large tree.</li> <li>Image there’s an invisible thread attached to the top of your head, gently pulling you up, stretching you out.</li> <li>Allow your shoulders to drop.&nbsp;</li> <li>Take a few moments to notice how your body feels. &nbsp;</li> <li>Check in with yourself as you bring your&nbsp;attention to your breath. &nbsp;</li> <li>Notice how the breath flows ... in ... and out ...</li> <li>There’s no need to change how you breathe.</li> <li>Your body is the expert.&nbsp; It knows just how.&nbsp; It needs no guidance.</li> <li>Simply notice each breath coming into the body with the in–breath,&nbsp;and leaving the body with the out–breath.</li> <li>If you notice your mind is caught up in thoughts or concerns, body sensations or emotions, know that this is normal.</li> <li>If your attention wanders, as it will, just notice it then return the focus again to your breathing.&nbsp;</li> <li>Notice the stray thoughts and feelings, but don’t dwell on them.&nbsp;</li> <li>Simply allow them to pass as you keep coming back to your breath.</li> <li>Your breath, which continues to flow ... deeply ... calmly ... continuously</li> <li>Feel your chest and stomach gently rise and fall with each breath.</li> <li>Take a few more moments to notice how your body feels.</li> <li>Keeping your eyes closed, notice the sounds around you.</li> <li>Feel the floor beneath you.</li> <li>Start to wiggle your toes.</li> <li>Loosen your head by shaking it slightly.</li> <li>Shrug your shoulders.</li> <li>Bring your attention back to your&nbsp;surroundings.</li> <li>Open your eyes and get adjusted to the light.</li> <li>Straighten out your legs, and stretch your arms and legs gently as you come back into the room.&nbsp;</li> <li>Check in with yourself.&nbsp;</li> <li>How are you feeling?</li> </ul> <p>Send a talking piece around inviting students to share what that was like for them.&nbsp; How are they feeling right now?</p> <p><br> <strong>Note to the Teacher: &nbsp;</strong></p> <p>If you are not comfortable talking students through a meditation yourself, there are several online audio sources you can turn to.&nbsp; The<a href="http://www.mindfulnesswithoutborders.org/media/"> Mindfulness Without Borders</a> website has a series of short audio clips to use at the start of a circle or class, in both English and Spanish.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>Snowflake Activity on Communication</h4> <p><br> Hand out 8.5 x 11 sheets of paper. Explain that you’ll start today’s circle with an activity.&nbsp; Either invite students to close their eyes or turn their chairs so they’ll sit with their backs to the center.&nbsp; Ask them not to look at what the person to either side of them is doing with the paper as you start the activity.&nbsp; Let them know that this activity will be done in silence (no questions!).</p> <p>Invite them to follow the following directions:</p> <ul> <li>Fold the paper in half</li> <li>Fold it in half again</li> <li>Rip a piece off the top right hand corner</li> <li>Rotate the paper 180 degrees</li> <li>Fold the paper in half again</li> <li>Rip a piece from the top left hand corner<br> &nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>Invite students to either open their eyes or turn their chairs around to face the center piece again.&nbsp; Have students unfold their paper and look around the room at the snowflakes that were created.&nbsp; You’ll note the variety of shapes that were created despite the exact same directions.&nbsp;</p> <p>Send a talking piece around inviting students to respond to some or all of the following prompts:</p> <ul> <li>What do you notice about the snowflakes we created?&nbsp;</li> <li>Why do you think this is?</li> <li>How does this relate to our work together in crew/advisory/class this year?</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>Option 1:&nbsp;<br> We Are Crew Not Passengers<br> &nbsp;</h4> <p>For this circle, add to the center piece images of a boat in rough weather (water) and/or a boat in more quiet water (fair weather) depending on what you think best represents your work together as a class, advisory or crew this year.&nbsp; Some images to consider:</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="People in a boat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="95a81e17-f288-4f58-ac03-7a169f2e4728" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Boat%201.jpg" class="align-center" width="1600" height="1058" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <img alt="People in a boat" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="520edebb-0f4f-499c-aa60-48f6d0f5b1cb" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Boat%202.jpg" class="align-center" width="1600" height="1140" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Invite students to look at the boat image or images in the center piece as they think about their work in class, advisory or crew this year.&nbsp; If needed they can get out of their seats to quietly look at the image(s).</p> <p>Circle prompts could be:</p> <ul> <li>How does this image represent our advisory/class this year?</li> <li>Who/where are you in this image?&nbsp; What role do you tend to play?</li> <li>How do you impact others in our group?</li> <li>What role would you like to play? How might that impact our advisory/class?</li> </ul> <p><br> Alternative approach:&nbsp; Share with students a collection of images, both abstract and concrete. Ask each student to choose one image to illustrate their answer as you ask questions about the advisory/class, the power of community, people’s role in the group, individual power, empowerment, shared power, etc.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>Option 2:<br> Values Go Rounds<br> &nbsp;</h4> <p>If they are not part of your center piece already, add values cards:&nbsp;</p> <p>Take a set of color index cards, post its, or pieces of paper or cardboard, and write different values on them.&nbsp; Values to consider are: support, caring, teamwork, flexibility, patience, creativity, empathy, caring, concern, generosity, respect, integrity, authenticity, collaboration, kindness, compassion, fairness, equity, open mindedness, honesty, etc.&nbsp;</p> <p>Below are some images that show how to have values be a part of your center piece.&nbsp; Make sure to always have empty cards and markers available, in case students want to add values. &nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <img alt="A center piece with values cards" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="f48b0088-d468-40a8-bff5-3586fc3f4fad" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/centerpiece%202%281%29.jpg" class="align-center" width="1306" height="1200" loading="lazy"> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><img alt="A center piece with values cards" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="51578468-47e4-489a-9634-cccf8d1b5c54" src="/sites/default/files/inline-images/Center%20piece%20values_1.jpg" width="1600" height="936" loading="lazy"></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Invite students to look at the values in the center piece as they think about the work they did in class, crew, or advisory this year. If needed they can get out of their seats to quietly read the different values at the center of their circle.&nbsp;</p> <p>For older students an alternative strategy for creating values cards is to hand out blank index cards and have each student write their own values in response to each of the prompts below.&nbsp; Invite them to contribute their value to the center piece after sharing the reason they picked that particular value.</p> <p>For the first go round, ask students to think back over the school year and pick a value that for them captures their crew, advisory or class.&nbsp; Send the talking piece around, asking students to share the value and why this value for them captures their advisory or class this year.</p> <p>Send the talking piece around again, inviting students to pick a value that they think has been challenging for them as an advisory or class this year.</p> <p>Send the talking piece around one final time, asking students to pick a value that they’d like to commit to in the new year, to improve how they’ll show up in advisory or class.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h4>Closing Ceremony:<br> Connections<br> &nbsp;</h4> <p>Explain that "connections" is a time to offer reflections or feelings about the work we’ve done together today. It’s an opportunity to share briefly what’s on your mind or in your heart (if you feel so moved).</p> <p>Ask if students are familiar with the Quakers, also known as the Friends?</p> <p>"Connections" comes from the Quaker tradition. People speak if they feel moved to speak.&nbsp; It’s not a discussion or go–round.&nbsp; If there is silence, that’s fine.&nbsp; Enjoy the silence as a time for reflection.</p> <p>Set your timer for three or four minutes and let the reflections unfold. When the timer goes off, it’s over. There’s no need for follow–up discussion.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>fionta</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2017-06-12T10:12:55-04:00" title="Monday, June 12, 2017 - 10:12">June 12, 2017</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Mon, 12 Jun 2017 14:12:55 +0000 fionta 325 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org A Poem to Reflect on the Year https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/poem-reflect-year <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>A Poem to Reflect on the Year</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><h4>Sharing a poem</h4> <p><br> Ask students to arrange their seats in a circle, if they aren't already seated this way. &nbsp;Give students a copy of the poem "Half Full, Half Empty, Half Over" by Lucille Wionna.&nbsp;</p> <p>Read the poem out loud as a group by inviting students to read up to a line each, going around the circle in order.&nbsp;</p> <p>Next, give students a few minutes to study the poem by themselves, in silence.&nbsp; Invite them to pick a line that resonates with them in some way as they think about the past six months of their lives, since January.</p> <p>Once again, go around the circle in order, this time asking each student to read out the line that resonates with them, thus creating a personalized version of the poem.&nbsp;</p> <p>For the next go round, ask students to read their line again, this time explaining why they picked that line.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4><br> Half Full, Half Empty, Half Over</h4> <p><strong>By Lucille Wionna</strong></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Half full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;:&nbsp;)</p> <p>Half empty&nbsp;&nbsp; : (</p> <p>Half o v e r .</p> <p>It’s June.</p> <p>(The sixth month</p> <p>Out of&nbsp;twelve.)</p> <p>Have I wasted&nbsp;</p> <p>My year so far?</p> <p>Have&nbsp;I accomplished&nbsp;</p> <p>Anything since</p> <p>J a n u a r&nbsp;y ?</p> <p>Half full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;:&nbsp;)</p> <p>Half empty&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: (</p> <p>Half o v e r .</p> <p>I got out of a rut.</p> <p>Went through a</p> <p>B r e a&nbsp;k - u&nbsp;p .</p> <p>Close friend&nbsp;</p> <p>Moved&nbsp;away.&nbsp;</p> <p>Changes left and right.&nbsp;</p> <p>Success?</p> <p>Or&nbsp;n o t ?</p> <p>Half full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: )</p> <p>Half empty&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; : (</p> <p>Half o v e r&nbsp;.</p> <p>Spent time</p> <p>With&nbsp;my family,</p> <p>And made a</p> <p>Course of action.&nbsp;</p> <p>Stayed friends with</p> <p>The g u y ,</p> <p>And basked in</p> <p>The S U N .</p> <p>Half full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: )</p> <p>Half empty&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: (</p> <p>Half&nbsp;o v e r .&nbsp;</p> <p>Take a look&nbsp;back</p> <p>And evaluate&nbsp;</p> <p>The&nbsp;past&nbsp;six months</p> <p>(Out of&nbsp;twelve).</p> <p>Filled&nbsp;mainly with&nbsp;</p> <p>S m i l e s ,</p> <p>But sometimes with</p> <p>T&nbsp;e a r s&nbsp;.&nbsp;</p> <p>Half&nbsp;full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: )</p> <p>Half&nbsp;empty&nbsp;&nbsp; : )</p> <p>Half&nbsp;o v e r .&nbsp;</p> <p>The sun has been</p> <p>S&nbsp;h i n i n&nbsp;g ,</p> <p>Though there has been</p> <p>R a i n .</p> <p>I push through the</p> <p>T&nbsp;r o u b l&nbsp;e s ,</p> <p>And come out&nbsp;on</p> <p>T O P&nbsp;again.&nbsp;</p> <p>Half&nbsp;full&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;: )</p> <p>Half&nbsp;full&nbsp; :&nbsp;)</p> <p>Half full : )&nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4><br> Reflecting on the poem</h4> <p><br> If time allows, consider some or all of the follow-up go rounds:</p> <ul> <li>What is something you learned so far this year that you’d like to remember after the summer, as you move into the next grade?</li> <li>What obstacles have you overcome this year?</li> <li>What is a goal you’d like to set for yourself next year?&nbsp; What might get in the way?&nbsp; How could you try to overcome the obstacles you envision for next year?</li> <li>What might you tell students coming into the grade you're now graduating from? What should they should keep in mind?</li> </ul> <p>As a follow-up activity, consider having students write themselves a letter or postcard to their future selves, with the lessons they learned this year and/or goals they’d like to set for themselves for next year.&nbsp; Collect the letters or postcards and either send them to the students before the start of next school year, or have them ready for distribution and reflection at the start of next school year.&nbsp;</p> <p>Alternatively, students could write letters or postcards to students coming into the grade with advice and suggestions to help them succeed next year.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4><br> Closing Ceremony: Connections</h4> <p><br> Set a timer for three to five minutes and explain that this next activity is about what students might be grateful for as they think back over the year so far (or the full school year). &nbsp;</p> <p>Explain that this is not a back and forth conversation or a circle go round.&nbsp; People are invited to express their gratitude if they feel so inclined.&nbsp;</p> <p>If no one feels the urge to speak, then we’ll simply sit and enjoy some quiet time at the end of our session.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>fionta</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2015-06-11T14:50:14-04:00" title="Thursday, June 11, 2015 - 14:50">June 11, 2015</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Thu, 11 Jun 2015 18:50:14 +0000 fionta 454 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org A Circle to End the Year https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/circle-end-year <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>A Circle to End the Year</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><p><em>This activity uses a Circle format to encourage students to reflect on the school year that's now coming to a close.&nbsp; See our <a href="http://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/introduction-circles">Introduction to Circles</a> for guidelines on this practice, which Morningside Center is introducing in middle and high schools across New York City.</em></p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4>Opening ceremony: Guided meditation</h4> <p>Explain to students that you'll be starting today's circle with an activity that will allow them to reflect on the school year. &nbsp;This kind of activity is called a guided meditation and in it you take a journey in your mind. &nbsp;Ask students to sit back in their chairs and get comfortable.&nbsp; If they want they can close their eyes or pick a spot on the floor in front of them to focus on.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> As the facilitator, in a calm voice, slowly read out the meditation that follows (or one that is better geared to your students).&nbsp; Take your time, pause frequently so that students can think and reflect:<br> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>As you think back to September ... the end of your summer break ... the start of the new school year ... How were you feeling?&nbsp; Summer was coming to a close ... you had to start getting up early again ...</li> </ul> <ul> <li>That first day of school as you started _______ &nbsp;grade ... you entered the school gates ... walking down the hallway on your way to your new class ...&nbsp;</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Think back to meeting your new teachers ... seeing your old friends ... or meeting the new kids in your class ...&nbsp; Maybe you were new yourself... <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>What was that like? ... What were you thinking? ... What were you feeling? <em>Pause.</em></li> </ul> <ul> <li>And as you got used to your new class and met your new teachers ... think about the relationships this year ... with your teacher ... with your friends ... your fellow students ... what were they like?&nbsp; <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>Were you able to work well together ... hang out after school perhaps? Did you get in trouble ... if so why? ... What happened? ... How did it turn out?&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em> <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>Were you able to reach out to anyone who was struggling? ... &nbsp;Did anyone reach out to you? ... Think about that time ...&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em> <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>Think also about the things you gained ...&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em>. ... the things you lost ... &nbsp;<em>Pause.</em>... a time you celebrated ...&nbsp; a time you commiserated ... &nbsp;How have those times affected you? <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>Now, think back to a highlight of your year ...&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em>&nbsp;... What happened? ... Who was involved? ... And how did it affect you? ...&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em>. ... <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>Next, let's also think about a challenge you faced this year ... What happened? ... Who was involved? ...&nbsp; How did it affect you? ...&nbsp; What did you learn? ...&nbsp;<em>Pause.</em> <div>&nbsp;</div> </li> <li>And as we've arrived here, now, today, as we wrap up the school year ... summer only just starting ... &nbsp;As you think back over the year, how are you feeling?&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;<br> And ... when you're ready ... open your eyes as we open up the circle to talk about the year.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>Send the talking piece around asking people to share a highlight, achievement or something worth celebrating with the rest of the group.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Send the talking piece around again, asking people to share a challenge they faced this year.&nbsp; How did they respond?&nbsp; What was the outcome?</li> </ul> <ul> <li>Send the talking piece again one final time asking students to think ahead to next year and to share one thing they will stop doing, start doing or keep doing next year.&nbsp;</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4><br> Weaving a Web</h4> <p>Ask students to stand up and think about this question: If you forgot everything else about this year, what is the one experience you'd most like to remember or hold on to?&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> Introduce a ball of yarn and explain to your students that in this activity you'll be weaving a web, a web that represents the relationships formed in your class over the year.&nbsp; Set the tone by sharing an experience of your own and why you want to remember it.&nbsp; Then toss the ball to someone else in the group, inviting them to share.&nbsp;&nbsp; After sharing, instruct this student to hold on to a piece of the yarn before tossing the ball on to another student, who will share his or her experience.&nbsp; As the ball of yarn is tossed from one student to the next, a web is created, physically connecting the members of the group.<br> &nbsp;<br> When everyone has received the ball at least once and shared their reflections, explain that the web they just created symbolizes the community that was built between them over the course of the year (or years in some cases).&nbsp; The strands show the connections and relationships that make up the class community.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> Ask students to make sure the strands are not sagging by taking a step back if needed.&nbsp; Then tug on the web in different places so that students can physically feel the interconnectedness you spoke of.&nbsp; Explain, as you tug on the web, that if something happens in the class community in one place others are affected too. If something happens to one person in the community there will be reverberations across the community - we're all affected; we're all touched in some way.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> Ask students if they can feel your tugs at the web?&nbsp; You may want to draw on an event that took place this past year that illustrates the idea of interconnectedness and community.&nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> <hr> <h4><br> Closing Ceremony</h4> <p>If you feel more of a closing is needed, read the following quote by Eleanor Roosevelt, former first lady:<br> &nbsp;<br> <em>"The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience."</em><br> &nbsp;<br> &nbsp;<br> &nbsp;</p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>fionta</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2013-06-13T14:42:11-04:00" title="Thursday, June 13, 2013 - 14:42">June 13, 2013</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Thu, 13 Jun 2013 18:42:11 +0000 fionta 582 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org Activities to Close the School Year https://www.morningsidecenter.org/teachable-moment/lessons/activities-close-school-year <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--title--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--title.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--title.html.twig * field--string.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <span>Activities to Close the School Year</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--title.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--body--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--node--body.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--body.html.twig * field--text-with-summary.html.twig x field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <div class="field field--name-body field--type-text-with-summary field--label-hidden field--item"><h3>To the Teacher:</h3> <p>Below are suggested activities to help you and your students wrap up the school year. These can be used in a regular classroom setting, advisory session, during class meetings or in an after-school program. Each activity uses a different methodology to encourage students to reflect on the year and look ahead to next year.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <hr> <p>&nbsp;</p> <h3>Simple Closing Circle</h3> <p><strong>Materials:</strong> None<br> <strong>Estimated time:</strong> 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of the group</p> <p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p> <p>Ask students to share one after the other one of the following:</p> <ul> <li>something that stands out for them about the school year, advisory, a particular lesson, session, or class meeting<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something that happened or something that someone said that is unfinished for them—something that they're still mulling over for whatever reason<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something that happened, or something they learned that they'll take with them from this year as they move on to the next grade<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something else that you think is particularly relevant to your group as you wrap up the year</li> </ul> <hr> <h3>Journaling</h3> <p><strong>Materials:</strong> Journals and pens<br> <strong>Estimated time:</strong> 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of the group</p> <p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p> <p>Ask students to write in their journals about:</p> <ul> <li>something that stands out for them about the school year, advisory, a particular lesson, session, or class meeting<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something that happened or something that someone said, that is unfinished for them—something that they're still mulling over for whatever reason<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something that happened, or something they learned, that they'll take with them from this year as they move on to the next grade or possibly another school<br> &nbsp;</li> <li>something else that you think is particularly relevant to your group as you wrap up the year.</li> </ul> <p>Depending on how you have structured journaling with your students, consider giving students some time to talk about what they wrote.</p> <hr> <h3>Weaving a Web</h3> <p><strong>Materials:</strong> A ball of yarn<br> <strong>Estimated time:</strong> 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of the group</p> <p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p> <p>Ask students to stand in a circle. Bring out the ball of yarn. Ask students to reflect on the past year, and think of something that stood out for them, something that they will take with them to the next grade or school, or something else appropriate for the group. The first student, after sharing their reflection, holds on to a piece of the yarn before tossing the ball to someone else in the group. This person, in turn, shares their reflections on the year, holding on to a piece of the yarn before throwing the ball on to the next student. As the ball of yarn is tossed from one person to the next, a web is created, connecting the members of the group.</p> <p>When all have received the ball (once) and shared their reflections, explain that the web they created symbolizes the community that was built between them over the course of the year. The strands show the connections and relationships that make up the class, advisory or after school community. By tugging on the web in different places students can physically feel the interconnectedness.</p> <p>Explain, as you tug on the web, that if something happens to one community member it affects the rest of the community—we're all touched in some way. Ask students if they can feel your tugs at the web. You may be able to draw on an event that took place this past year that illustrates the idea of interconnectedness and community.</p> <hr> <h3>Hopes, Expectations &amp; Concerns</h3> <p><strong>Materials:</strong> Chart(s) with Hopes, Expectations &amp; Concerns from start of the year<br> <strong>Estimated time:</strong> 30-50 minutes, depending on the size of the group</p> <p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p> <p>If you started the school year asking your students to think about and possibly chart their hopes, expectations and concerns for the year, this would be a great time to go back to that chart (if you still have it).</p> <p>Ask your students to remember the hopes, expectations and concerns they had at the start of the year, quietly, without speaking. Then ask them to think back over the course of the school year and what happened. Ask them to consider whether their hopes, expectations and concerns came true? If so, how? If not, why do they think that is? Ask students to think back to where they were at in September and where they are at now, both individually and as a group. How did that impact the hopes, expectations, and concerns they listed in September and what actually happened over the course of the year.</p> <p>In triads or quads have students discuss possible similarities and discrepancies between the start of the year and now as far as their hopes, expectations and concerns are concerned. Also encourage them to talk about why they think this is, touching on relevant events and developments over the course of the school year.</p> <p>Back in the large group, ask students to report on important themes discussed in their triads/quads (making sure not to violate confidentiality) and open things up to a large group discussion, reflecting on the year's events, developments, lessons learned, etc.</p> <hr> <h3>Postcard or Letter to Yourself</h3> <p><strong>Materials:</strong> Postcards, writing paper, envelopes, stamps<br> <strong>Estimated time:</strong> 30 minutes</p> <p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p> <p>Ask students to write a letter or postcard to themselves in which they reflect on the lessons they learned this year and how they'll apply these lessons next year. Ask students to look ahead to next year. Encourage them to think about the goals they'd like to set for themselves or how they'd like to work on themselves, perhaps by changing certain behaviors or by practicing particular skills.</p> <p>Once they've written the letter or postcard, have them put it in a sealed envelope addressed to themselves. Collect the envelopes, promising to give them or mail them to the students, possibly a month or so into the new year.</p> <p><strong>Note:</strong> If this is an activity you opt for, make sure you find a safe place for the letters/cards. Students will remember, and will look forward to receiving a letter from themselves at some point next year. This can be especially nice for 8th graders moving on to high school.</p> <hr> <p><em>We welcome your thoughts and suggestions about these activities.&nbsp;</em></p> </div> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/field/field.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--uid--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--uid.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--uid.html.twig * field--entity-reference.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'username' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> <span>fionta</span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/user/templates/username.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--uid.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'field' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * field--node--created--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig x field--node--created.html.twig * field--node--teachable-moment-lesson.html.twig * field--created.html.twig * field.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <span> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'time' --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> <time datetime="2011-11-07T13:00:00-05:00" title="Monday, November 7, 2011 - 13:00">November 7, 2011</time> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/system/templates/time.html.twig' --> </span> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'core/modules/node/templates/field--node--created.html.twig' --> <!-- THEME DEBUG --> <!-- THEME HOOK: 'links__node' --> <!-- FILE NAME SUGGESTIONS: * links--node.html.twig x links.html.twig --> <!-- BEGIN OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> <!-- END OUTPUT from 'themes/contrib/bootstrap/templates/system/links.html.twig' --> Mon, 07 Nov 2011 18:00:00 +0000 fionta 684 at https://www.morningsidecenter.org