What now Mrs. T?

The state test had barely left their fingertips when the question began formulating in their precious minds...what are we going to do after CSTs? "Are we just going to watch movies?" NO! "Are we going to just hang out?" NEVER! But, I have to admit that this time of year, I certainly struggle with where to take them this last month of school. Should I go over the content they did not grasp as strongly as others?  Should I cover the end of the book which is not a state standard but could be connected to real life experiences? Or, should we dive into some amazing projects I have always wanted to do with them but never had the time? 

I believe all teachers encounter this dilemma. My little group of collaborating teachers is mindful of the 6th and 7th grade teachers and the projects they do to enrich their classes. We try to design projects that do not repeat the content taught by other teachers. We lyook through many resources and weed through all the projects we find intriguing. Finally, the end result? A series of projects that touch on a collection of standards previously taught but hopefully will heighten student comprehension and challenge students to learn content in a manner that is meaningful and  individualized. In addition, this is a time in which we can try new technology, instructional strategies, and materials we may not have branched out and dared to attempt during the normal pacing guide time frame. This is not to say that we do not try new methods of instruction throughout the year because every year most teachers grow and alter their lessons to increase student achievement. But, I recall learning about Edmodo and keeping it on my to do list until the end of the year when I felt I could really give the educational vehicle the time and efforts to assist student learning. Now, I begin the school year familiarizing my students with Edmodo. 

So, when my students ask "What now?" I am excited to tell them all about the list of content, technologies, and projects of which we will be wrapping up our school year. While they may sigh, roll their middle school eyes, and wish for a month of movies, secretly they are going to be more entertained and pleased to work with and learn from their peers and algebra teacher...or so I will tell myself each and everyday as I drive to school.