5 fun back-to-school activities to kickstart the new year
As the new school year begins, it’s essential to help students transition smoothly from their summer break back into the school routine. Easing them into the academic environment can set a positive tone for the entire year, fostering engagement and excitement.
The following activities are designed to be both fun and interactive, making them perfect for reconnecting students with their peers and the classroom environment. These activities are versatile and adaptable, making them suitable for various subjects. In language classes, for example, they can be customized to incorporate the languages most popular among students, turning these activities into practical and versatile learning tools.
Activity 1. Vacation show-and-tell
Students share a memorable experience from their summer vacation through a short presentation. Encourage them to use descriptive language and include photos or drawings.
They can also use tablets or a touchscreen to search for images that remind them of their vacation. These images can be shared directly on the touchscreen, allowing students to discuss them with the class.
Activity 2. Story circle
In this collaborative writing activity, students sit in a circle and each adds a sentence to a story that starts with an open-ended prompt. The final story is read aloud to the class, highlighting creativity and teamwork.
Activity 3. School year preview
Students write down their personal goals and expectations for the year on post-it notes or in a journal. These goals are then placed on a "goals board" in the classroom, where they can be revisited and discussed throughout the year. Using a touchscreen, students can also create digital post-its to track and update their goals as the year progresses, making it easy to monitor their progress and stay motivated.
Activity 4. Holiday-themed charades
Students act out vacation-related activities or summer experiences in a game of charades, while their classmates guess what they are. This fun activity helps build vocabulary and speaking confidence. Afterward, review the words and phrases used during the game.
Activity 5. Vacation postcard writing
Students write postcards as if they are still on vacation, describing their experiences and activities. They can add drawings and address the postcards to their classmates. For a digital twist, students can design and present their postcards on a touchscreen.
These activities not only help students transition back into the school environment but also foster creativity, communication, and collaboration from the start.
Start the academic year right
These activities not only ease students back into their school routine but also encourage active participation and collaboration. By starting the year with these engaging exercises, you can create a classroom environment that is both dynamic and supportive, setting the stage for a successful year ahead.