Skip to Content

Grabbing Students' Interest


January 26, 2010

Pamela Matway, a sixth grade social studies teacher at Sedwick Middle School in West Hartford, Connecticut

When I want my students to try a new activity or get involved in an assignment, I try to develop fascinating introductions that motivate them. For example, when the students start a research assignment on the Mayans, I create a short video, which asks them to become detectives to uncover the mystery behind the Mayans. Obviously, the video has to have some excitement. What I found also works well is assigning the students a role. Not a role like note-taker or time-keeper, but rather something more intriguing. Some roles I have used are detective (as stated above), prime-time newscaster, director, musician, company CEO, or even using people they know, like Donald Trump or another individual related to the assignment.

 

COMMENTS:

1 - 3 out of 3 Comments | Add your comment

Vickie | 2010/04/14

This is a terrific idea. It does take some creativity to hook them in. It's always great to get other teacher ideas. I would love to see the video too.

Melanie Huffman | 2010/04/14

Would love to see a sample of a video introduction!

ydt | 2010/02/04

Great idea, works with middle elementary trough high school and most probably at least freshman college. :)

Add Your Comment

Please type this text in the box below:

RATE THIS TIP

Average User Rating
3 stars
of 5.

Your Rating

    Advertisement

    Advertisement