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Three Great Ways to Keep Students Engaged at Year-End
Somehow May is already right around the corner and the last day for students is just a month away! One of the most challenging aspects of a school year's end is teachers keeping their students engaged and motivated.
While we probably are all nearly burnt out, it's important to keep our eyes on the prize and work hard to finish the year strong. We've gathered some amazing strategies that you can use in your classroom to keep students engaged as they begin to daydream of summer break!
Utilize Gamification
While your students may be chomping at the bit for summer break, there still will be things to learn and prepare for in the last month of school. One great way to utilize their excitement for learning is through gamification. Gamification is the process of taking the elements of playing a game and using them to teach content or encourage students to engage in content.
By adding elements of games or contests into your lesson planning, you can make end-of-the-year learning much more fun. Finding ways to incorporate competition amongst the individual, or groups, can motivate students to work harder and stay focused.
Miniaturize Project-Based Learning
While it may be too late in the game to begin a huge project in your classroom, or if your students are already working on one, there is still room to add a miniaturized version of project-based learning. Find ways to let students utilize their creativity and problem solving skills to get them engaged.
This could really be anything, ranging from an art project, to a quick presentation – just something tangible!
Opportunities for Reflection
One of the most effective ways to cap off the school year is by having your students reflect on the ways that they have grown over the last eight months or so. By providing an opportunity for students to reflect before they leave for the year, you can help them gain a better understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, and even set goals for the next year.
This could be something as simple as engaging in a writing exercise where they focus on things they learned this year, either about subject material or themselves. You could even invite your students to open up to their peers and engage in discussion about their growth with others. This can be a great way to provide some closure for students to take the leap they need for the next grade!
About CCEF
CCEF strives to create inclusive and exciting opportunities for supporters of CCSD educators and students to get involved. We run several programs throughout the year to supply funds to the faculty and schools for impactful educational projects, big and small. From Impact Grants and Rapid Grants, to sporting events and more, CCEF wants to provide opportunities to those who otherwise may not have the funds to make their ideas come to life. CCEF consistently seeks to support innovative and impactful education programs in the district through fundraisers, grants, and campaigns.
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