2020 has officially started (especially since we’re now halfway done February). But, amidst the craziness that is life as a teacher-mom I need to stop and reflect on what has gone well in my 8th grade class this year and what I’m for sure going to continue doing for the rest of the school year.
1. Morning Meetings in 8th Grade
First of all, it’s totally not weird to do Morning Meeting in an 8th Grade class. So much of the day is busy and I need that time to connect with my students.
Everyday, I have a slide with a message from me that outlines our plan for the day and gives instructions about tasks the students need to do. We then do a greeting, share or activity before we start the day. Click here if you want to learn more about morning meeting or here to see the resources I use.
Connecting with 8th graders isn’t easy, but Morning Meeting gives us that structured time to acknowledge each other and start the day in a positive way.
2. Soft Starts - Creating Focus in an 8th Grade Class
The one thing I have noticed about 8th graders is that they love to chat. Have you ever walked into an 8th Grade class at the beginning of the day? It is a buzz of conversation. My mistake at the beginning of the year was expecting them to get right down to work.
These students need time to settle into the day. I first heard of Soft Starts from Jill at Hello Fifth and incorporated them a few months ago. When my students come in they can play a board game, do a puzzle, read a book, do some hand lettering (here is another way I use hand lettering in 8th grade), or work on homework. What they cannot do is sit and chat or be on technology. I use this time to get settled or to give extra help.
3. House System
I am a firm believer in the power of intrinsic motivation. Except for stickers! I love stickers! Although it went against my teaching philosophy, I also challenged myself to be more fun this year. That is where the House System came in.
The students are split up into 5 different houses. At the beginning of the year, they brainstormed and voted on the ways to earn points and the rewards.
Then, I made them come up with a house cheer (which brings me joy), they have monthly house meetings where they can give me feedback on what is working in class and I also let them pick out some new books for our class library. We also do extreme house challenges (think minute-to-win-it games) every once in awhile.
Yes, I give points and rewards but I am also putting systems in place that build community and relationships in my 8th grade class.
What techniques do you use in your class? I’d love to hear about it. Comment below or send me a message on Instagram.
