Embracing the New Year: An ELA Journey of Reflection and Resolutions
Introduction:
Embark on a transformative journey with your high school students as we delve into the "Resolutions and Reflections - ELA New Year's Celebration." This holistic activity intertwines introspection, creative expression, and collaborative learning to foster a positive start to the upcoming year.
Objective:
Encourage students not only to
reflect on the past year but also to set meaningful resolutions, fostering
personal and academic growth through creative expression.
Materials Needed:
- Paper or digital devices for writing
- Colored markers, pens, or digital drawing tools
- Chart paper or digital whiteboard for group sharing
Activity Steps:
1. Reflection on the Past Year
(15 minutes):
- Initiate the activity with a collective exploration
of the concept of reflection. Prompt students to ponder significant
events, challenges, and achievements from the past year.
- Each student jots down personal key moments or
experiences that left a lasting impact.
2. Group Discussion (10
minutes):
- Facilitate small group discussions where students
openly share their reflections.
- Encourage dialogue on lessons learned, personal
growth, and memorable experiences within the safety of their groups.
3. Resolutions and Goals (15
minutes):
- Transition smoothly to the idea of setting
resolutions or goals for the upcoming year. Introduce the concept of SMART
goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
- Each student articulates at least three personal or
academic goals for the new year.
4. Creative Expression (20
minutes):
- Channel creativity as students choose one resolution
and express it through writing and/or drawing. Encourage the use of
figurative language, vivid descriptions, or symbolism to convey their
aspirations.
- The goal is to create a tangible representation of
their resolutions.
5. Share and Discuss (15
minutes):
- Foster a communal atmosphere as students share their
creations through a gallery walk.
- Lead a class discussion on common themes, unique
perspectives, or innovative approaches to resolutions.
6. Peer Feedback (10 minutes):
- Cultivate a supportive environment by having students
provide positive and constructive feedback to their peers.
- Emphasize the collaborative spirit and the importance
of mutual encouragement.
7. Goal Visualization (10
minutes):
- Conclude the activity by prompting students to
visualize themselves achieving their resolutions. They can craft a
paragraph or draw a scene portraying the successful realization of their
goals.
- Discuss the profound impact of visualization and
positive thinking on goal achievement.
8. Reflective Journal Entry
(Homework):
- Extend the experience into the students' personal
space by assigning a reflective journal entry as homework. Explore how the
activity influenced their perspective on the past year and shaped their
approach to the new one.
Assessment:
Assessment is
informal, focusing on student engagement in discussions, creativity in
expressing resolutions, and the depth of reflective insights.
Embark on this ELA New Year's Celebration activity to foster a community of introspection, creativity, and mutual support, laying the groundwork for a positive and purposeful new year.