If only the outside world knew how much time teachers dedicated to preparing for the new school year during their ‘summer vacation’ they’d know by now that we are all scouring the internet from Pinterest, Instagram, TpT and the like looking for new and creative ways to engage our students. Add distance learning to that equation and the search is compounded triple fold. Ugh!
Not all of us are as tech savvy as others, which is the greatest hinderance since tech savviness does not equate to good teacher. However, the Coronavirus dictates otherwise this year and those non-techie teachers are left in the cold, dazed and bewildered with a “now what” question mark hanging over their heads.
In an effort to help teachers look like a rock star on their first day of school, AND get kids interested and participating in online learning, I’ve created an interactive activity that is perfect for those secondary teachers looking for help.
Back to School Station Activities: Digital Version
What better way to welcome your students back to school during distance learning than through these first day of school interactive welcome stations! Perfect for grades 6-12 and ideal for ELA students (although it can be adjusted for other subject areas).
Here is how it works…
Upload the presentation to Google Slides or One Drive and share with your students. Students will interact with the home slide as they move between the 4 stations that follow.
STATION 1: About Me Student Survey
Get to know your newbies with an engaging survey giving you useful insight into your new students. This survey includes questions about students’ interests, personal achievements and perspectives as learners.
STATION 2: Classroom Technology Log
Get students acquainted with your class tech accounts that will be used in your class during the school year. Provide your students with up to 7 tech platforms and their class codes. Students will record the accounts, login information, and sign up for their accounts.
STATION 3: Syllabus Scavenger Hunt
After sharing your syllabus with your students, they will complete a scavenger hunt form finding important information; its a quick check for understanding of your rules and expectations.
STATION 4: Vision Board
Give your students a voice by having them create a vision board depicting who they are, things they are most proud of and their vision of success as a scholar. Once completed, having students share their vision boards is a great way to allow the class to get to know one another.
With engaging and interactive activities on day 1, the tone is set, expectations are met and students will, no doubt, look forward to what’s next.
Happy first day of school! This year is sure to be one for the history books.