Engaging MYP Students Proactively During Morning and Break Times

Engaging students in the Middle Years Programme (MYP) during morning and break times can significantly enhance their school experience, fostering a sense of community and well-being. Here are two authentic activities for each class (grades 6, 7, and 8) that have proven effective in achieving this goal.

Grade 6

1. Morning Mindfulness Sessions

• Activity: Guided Mindfulness Exercises
• Objective: Help students start their day calmly and focused.
• Details: Begin the morning with a short, guided mindfulness session. This could include breathing exercises, visualization, or simple meditation.

2. Interactive Bulletin Board

• Activity: Collaborative Wall
• Objective: Foster creativity and collaboration.
• Details: Set up a bulletin board in the classroom or hallway where students can contribute to a weekly theme. Themes could range from “What Inspires You?” to “Favorite Books” or “Acts of Kindness.”

Grade 7

1. Morning Leadership Roles

• Activity: Student-Led Announcements
• Objective: Develop leadership skills and responsibility.
• Details: Assign different students the role of leading morning announcements. This could include sharing important school news, highlighting student achievements, or starting the day with a motivational quote.

2. Break Time Clubs

• Activity: Student Interest Groups
• Objective: Engage students in activities they are passionate about.
• Details: Facilitate the formation of student-led clubs that meet during break times. These could be based on interests such as reading, chess, science experiments, or art.

Grade 8

1. Morning Debate Sessions

• Activity: Quick Debates on Current Topics
• Objective: Develop critical thinking and communication skills.
• Details: Organize short, informal debates on current events or relevant topics. Allow students to choose sides and present their arguments.

2. Break Time Reflection Journals

• Activity: Personal Journaling
• Objective: Encourage self-reflection and emotional well-being.
• Details: Provide students with journals to reflect on their day, set personal goals, or express their thoughts and feelings.

Conclusion

Engaging MYP students during morning and break times through structured activities not only enhances their school experience but also contributes to their overall development. By incorporating mindfulness sessions, collaborative projects, leadership opportunities, interest-based clubs, debate sessions, and reflection journals, teachers can create a supportive and stimulating environment. These activities encourage students to connect with each other, explore their interests, and develop essential skills, making their school days more enjoyable and productive.

Keep Learning!

Arvind