Attendance Matters!

Jennifer Thomas

Tier 1

Lesson Plan

Attendance Matters!

Improve Attendance

This lesson aims to improve student attendance by highlighting its importance and engaging students in a discussion about the benefits of regular attendance. The lesson includes a video, a worksheet, and a discussion to reinforce the learning objectives. By understanding the impact of attendance on their academic success and future opportunities, students will be more motivated to attend school regularly.

Audience

Middle School Students

Time

15-30 minutes

Approach

Blended Learning, Trauma-Informed Teaching, Active Learning

Materials

Worksheet: Attendance Reflection, Discussion Questions, Video: Ways to Improve Parent-Child Relationship, and Reading: NC Attendance Law for Parents

Step 1

Introduction

5 mins

Begin with a brief discussion on why attendance is important.
Ask students to share their thoughts on how attendance affects their learning.

Step 2

Video Viewing

6 mins

Show the video Ways to Improve Parent-Child Relationship.
Encourage students to think about how their relationship with their parents might affect their attendance.

Step 3

Discussion

7 mins

Use the discussion questions to facilitate a conversation about the video and the importance of attendance.
Encourage students to share personal experiences and strategies for improving attendance.

Step 4

Worksheet Activity

7 mins

Distribute the 'Attendance Reflection' worksheet.
Allow students time to complete the worksheet, reflecting on their own attendance and setting goals for improvement.

Step 5

Closure

5 mins

Summarize the key points discussed in the lesson.
Distribute the 'NC Attendance Law for Parents' handout for students to take home.
Encourage students to discuss the importance of attendance with their parents.

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Worksheet

Attendance Reflection Worksheet

This worksheet helps students reflect on their attendance habits and set goals for improvement.

Why is attending school regularly important to you?

Think about how it affects your learning and future opportunities.

What challenges do you face in attending school regularly?

Consider any personal, family, or transportation issues.

List three strategies you can use to improve your attendance.

Think about setting alarms, organizing your schedule, or asking for help.

Discussion

Attendance Discussion Questions

These questions guide a discussion on the importance of attendance and how students can improve it.

How does regular attendance benefit you academically and socially?

Discuss the impact on grades, friendships, and school involvement.

What role do parents play in ensuring regular attendance?

Consider how communication and support from parents can help.

How can you overcome obstacles to attending school regularly?

Encourage sharing of personal strategies and solutions.

Reading

NC Attendance Law for Parents

This handout provides information on North Carolina's attendance laws for parents.

North Carolina Attendance Law

In North Carolina, regular school attendance is required for children between the ages of 7 and 16. Parents are responsible for ensuring their children attend school regularly. Excessive absences can lead to legal consequences for both the student and the parents. It is important for parents to communicate with the school if their child is unable to attend due to illness or other valid reasons. For more information, please contact your local school district.