Transition Time

          Transitioning from high school to middle school has provided me with exposure to two completely different "worlds". Even though my eigth graders are only two years younger than my tenth graders were their maturity levels, curriculum, and overall treatment in school is extremely different. I'm both surprised and excited about the amount of creativity that is incorporated into a middle schooler's curriculum. Currently my students are working on literally building and constructing their own Renaissance scene whether it be a kitchen, and art gallery, whatever. These creations will be the primary focus of parent teacher conferences held in the form of a Renassance faire. The classroom is covered in student work ranging from rewritten song lyrics to each individuals astrological sign drawn out and decorated. Escorting students to lunch adds somewhat of an child-like complex to the students that has faded away in the high school setting. Although I believe that I do prefer middle school there are certainly some aspects of high school which I already miss.

           Currently, students have been working on their Renaissance reserach projects and three-sided-poster board scenes. Following the completion of those my CT and I will begin Hamlet with the students and work on teaching them about performances and the theatre. We have been implementing improv into everyday classroom activities. Although these improv exercises may not go perfectly the first time around it is still clear that students enjoy themselves and are having fun. I'm not too sure if these improv activities would have gone over so well with high school students but middle schoolers seem to enjoy any type of activity that gets them up out of their seats, no matter how corny it may be.