Joanie Clarkson
It's almost the end of the school year. You might be running out of steam or just out of ideas. Pocketful of Primary has you covered with 5 low to no-prep activities your students will love. I've recapped them below and included a few of my tips and tricks, but I highly encourage you to watch the video for a more in-depth look at each activity and suggestions on free resources.
#1 - Crafts and Projects
She gives lots of examples in the video of tangible crafts and projects along with digital projects. The reason these are low to no-prep is that they are all review-type assignments. Students will either work in groups or independently to create a themed memory book or other projects that encapsulates all they have learned this year. I really liked the activity about planning your dream vacation. This is a great way to incorporate geography, research skills, and math skills.
#2 - Games
Here is a post I wrote about Review Games Students Love, also featuring Pocketful of Primary. You can use these games to review for end-of-year tests or make them just for fun. Maybe make the questions about the students. Also, since it is the end of the year, it is ok to just have fun. There are many games your students can play with no academic "value." You could also have students work in groups to make a game and then play the other groups' games.
#3 - Countdown
I really liked her idea for an A to Z countdown for the last day of school. Each day has a different theme that starts with its respective letter. There are some really fun themes you could come up with, like polka dot day for P where everyone wheres polka dots either on their clothes or tape on paper polka dots. She provides a free resource so you don't have to come up with your own ideas.
#4 - Awards
I love this idea from an SEL standpoint. You can have students nominate one another for various awards allowing them to practice encouraging each other. Additionally, this is a great opportunity for you to recognize each of your students for their efforts and successes this year.
#5 - Party
This is especially good on the last day of school when both you and the kids are not focused on learning at all. Let loose and just have fun. They can play games, socialize, watch a movie and eat snacks. Have parents send in treats for them to enjoy following your school's guidelines on treats from home. In the video, she offers some great suggestions if you want to provide the snacks yourself, which might be easier. Just remember to have fun!
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