Helping students get ready to transition to the next grade is an important part of the end of the school year preparations. Although there are many different ways to do it, we loved this idea by Michelle, a 6th Grade Teacher, from Bison, SD. She has the challenging task of helping her students move to Jr. High and adapting to all of those changes. Here’s her advice on how to make the transition easier for students.
Helping Students Transition to the Next Grade
“All year long, I work to prepare my students to make the move from my 6th grade class to Jr. High,” Michelle explained. “For example, we have lockers in our classroom and instead of letting them sit empty I have students use these to store their belongings. Each time we move our focus from one subject to the next, I have students visit their lockers to retrieve the necessary books and supplies, just as they will next year.”
“I also prepare students for the challenges ahead by giving them protracted assignments they must complete over time. In addition, we tour the Jr. High school building and shadow the students as they move through their day. That way, my students get a solid sense of what a day in the life of a junior high school student will be like.”
“Finally, I provide my students with apps for their iPod Touch, iPad, and smart phones. These apps are especially designed to keep skills sharp over the summer. There are also apps to help them organize their time and their assignments, so that they get a handle on time management. I want them to be as prepared as they possibly can be and I know that a lot of that preparation starts with me.”
How do you help your students transition to the next grade? Share your strategies with us in the comments below!