It's that time of year!

It is the season between Thanksgiving and Christmas, a time when I am anticipating some time off with friends and family. But my middle school children were not always excited. Sometimes their worlds were not as safe, as secure, or as hopeful as mine. When I was teaching I tried to bring in activities and experiences that reinforced content but engaged them more, especially on Fridays, for them and for me. Yesterday, I shared three activities with my middle school college students.

First, I asked my students to brainstorm their heroes using the following categories: family, artists (athletes, musicians, ...), a favorite middle school teacher, their favorite book character or author, historical figure and asked them to tell why they are their heroes. In groups they chose several to share and then we talked about writing them a letter. 
Second, I then had them 'choose 10 things' they would want to take with them if they had to leave your home forever. (Note: toiletries, all family members and pets would be going.) I then said, 'oh no, things have changed, you can only take five things - so if you said 'clothes' you can now only take one item.' I then asked them to choose which of those items was most important and which was least. Note: With the fires in our area, evacuation is something they are familiar with. 
Third, we mad a 'thank you quilt.' I cut 5x5 inch squares, asked students to write a thank you card to the 'In Real Life' (our after school enrichment service project through Asheville City Schools) people. Students then placed their square on the door, which decorated the door and will be used to make a certificate to thank them for giving us this opportunity. 
Perhaps you could use these activities with your students. I would love to gather more ideas from you specific to your content areas. (:
Have a great week CIROs.