When students have been out of school on break for even a couple of days, they can return to school full of energy. Have some special activities for them to complete the first day back to help ease them back into the routine of school. Remember that they will likely be distractible and want to still be home playing, so be prepared with extra patience.
Writing Prompts for the First Day Back from Break
When students come back to school from break, come up with some creative writing prompts that will help focus them on school while acknowledging the fun they had over break. For example, after Christmas break, have students write about their favorite gift. Teach persuasion by having students try to convince their parents to get them something else that they want. After spring break, students can write about where they went, or who they saw.
If your students keep journals, having them write in their journal over break will provide an excellent way for them to share their experiences with the class while practicing their writing skills. Have a chance for each student to share something from their journal over the first week back to school. Continue having them write in their journal by providing numerous prompts and sentence starters to give them ideas to write about.
Math Activities for the First Day Back from Break
After taking time off from school, your students will need to refresh their memory on the skills they mastered before leaving school. Having students complete some simple math games before diving into the next math unit may be beneficial. Play Around the World and other simple math games to review math facts and other basic concepts they learned before the break.
Review Game for All Subjects
Consider putting together a Jeopardy game to remind students of the different skills they learned before break. This game can have a category for each subject they study in class, and include facts and skills that extend all the way back to the beginning of the school year. Students will love the opportunity to play an exciting game, and will be thrilled with the opportunity to play games instead of learn something new. Little do they know, the game will provide an excellent opportunity for them to review their skills before beginning to learn new information.
Although students rarely want to come back to school after break, providing some fun review games and activities for them can help make the transition a little smother. Remember to ask students how their break was, and be excited to hear all the news they are ready to share with you. Consider opening the school day with a classroom meeting so that students can share their excitement before they begin their lessons for the day.
You may also be interested in activities to do with students the day before break.
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Jennifer Wagaman - Jennifer is a mother of 2 and has both public, private and administrative experience in the education field.
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