Teacher Strategies for Back to School: First-Day Activities for Middle and High School Students

First-Day Activities for Middle and High School Students (Part 1)

The first day of school is a critical moment that sets the tone for the entire academic year. It’s a unique opportunity to build rapport, create a positive classroom atmosphere, and establish expectations that will guide students’ behavior and learning. Effective teacher strategies are key to balancing openness and engagement with the establishment of clear routines and procedures. This balance ensures that while students are excited and motivated, the classroom environment remains structured and conducive to learning. Here’s a list of first-day activities suitable for middle and high school students that achieve this balance effectively.

Teacher Strategies for Back to School

Activities

• Icebreaker Questions: Begin with a series of icebreaker questions where students share interesting facts about themselves or their summer experiences.

• Student Interviews: Pair students up and have them interview each other. Afterward, each student introduces their partner to the class.

• Classroom Scavenger Hunt: Create a list of items or clues related to the classroom or the school. Students work in pairs or teams to find and document them.

• Goal Setting: Encourage students to set academic and personal goals for the year. Discuss the importance of setting and working toward these goals.

• Class Discussions: Engage students in discussions about classroom expectations, rules, and norms. Encourage them to participate and share their thoughts.

• Letter to the Future: Have students write a letter to their future selves, outlining their goals, aspirations, and expectations for the school year. Seal the letters to be opened later in the year.

• Interest Surveys: Distribute surveys asking about students’ interests, hobbies, and learning preferences. Use this information to tailor your teaching and classroom activities.

• “Two Truths and a Lie”: Students take turns sharing two true statements and one false statement about themselves. The class guesses which statement is the lie.

• Classroom Tour: Give a guided tour of the classroom and school facilities, especially for new students.

• Book Pass: In a literature or language arts class, arrange a “book pass.” Students have a few minutes to browse a selection of books and choose one to read for the class.

First-day activities are essential in laying the groundwork for a successful school year. They help students feel comfortable in their new environment, foster positive relationships among peers, and set clear expectations for behavior and learning. However, it’s crucial to strike a balance between being open and engaging and maintaining control of the classroom. Establishing routines and procedures from the start will ensure that fun and interactive activities are conducted in an orderly manner, setting the stage for a productive and enjoyable year. For more tips and resources on creating a dynamic and well-managed classroom, visit monicacrews.com.