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High School Bound!

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Lesson Plan

High School Bound: What to Expect

Students will be able to identify at least three key differences between middle school and high school, understand the purpose of high school, and begin to articulate their hopes and concerns for the transition.

The transition to high school can be daunting for many students, especially those from an inclusion model. Understanding what to expect can reduce anxiety and build confidence, setting them up for success in a new environment.

Audience

8th Grade Students

Time

30 minutes

Approach

Interactive discussion, visual aids, and reflection activities to demystify high school.

Materials

High School Bound: What to Expect Slide Deck, Warm-Up: High School Hopes & Fears, and Cool-Down: One Word Wonder

Prep

Review Materials

15 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up: Hopes & Fears (5 minutes)

5 minutes

  • Begin with the Warm-Up: High School Hopes & Fears. Ask students to jot down one hope and one fear they have about high school.
    * Facilitate a brief share-out (voluntary) to gauge initial feelings.

Step 2

Introduction to High School (10 minutes)

10 minutes

  • Present the first few slides of the High School Bound: What to Expect Slide Deck.
    * Introduce the concept of high school as a new adventure with more independence and opportunities.
    * Discuss key differences: schedule, classes, teachers, extracurriculars, lockers, academic expectations. Use the slides to guide the conversation, asking open-ended questions like, “What do you think will be different?”

Step 3

Why High School Matters (8 minutes)

8 minutes

  • Continue with the High School Bound: What to Expect Slide Deck, focusing on the 'Why High School Matters' section.
    * Explain the importance of high school for future pathways (college, career, personal growth).
    * Emphasize that high school is a time for self-discovery and building new skills. Foster a positive outlook by highlighting opportunities for new friends, clubs, and electives.

Step 4

Q&A and Reassurance (5 minutes)

5 minutes

  • Open the floor for student questions. Address any lingering fears or misconceptions.
    * Reassure students that support systems will be available in high school, similar to their current program, and that it's okay to ask for help.

Step 5

Cool-Down: One Word Wonder (2 minutes)

2 minutes

  • Conclude with the Cool-Down: One Word Wonder. Ask students to write down one word that describes how they feel about high school after the lesson.
    * Collect or have students share voluntarily.
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Slide Deck

High School Bound: What to Expect!

Your journey to a new adventure begins now!

Welcome students and introduce the topic of transitioning to high school. Keep the tone positive and encouraging.

Middle School vs. High School

  • Classes & Schedule: More choices, different bell schedules
    - Teachers: More teachers, different teaching styles
    - Independence: More responsibility, managing your time
    - Extracurriculars: Sports, clubs, activities – something for everyone!
    - Lockers & Hallways: Navigating a bigger space
    - Academic Expectations: What does 'high school ready' mean?

Prompt students to think about their current school experience and what might change. Encourage participation by asking questions about their expectations.

Why High School Matters

  • Future Pathways: College, career, trade school – high school is your stepping stone!
    - New Skills: Develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication.
    - Self-Discovery: Find new interests, passions, and talents.
    - Friendships & Community: Meet new people, build lasting connections, join clubs that excite you!

Discuss the 'why' behind high school. Connect it to future goals and personal growth. Emphasize opportunities for new learning and social connections.

Your Questions, Your Future

What's on your mind about high school?

Remember, it's okay to feel excited, nervous, or both! There are always people to support you.

Open the floor for any questions students may have. Be prepared to address common anxieties and provide reassurance about support systems.

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Warm Up

High School Hopes & Fears

Think about high school. What is one thing you are excited about or hope for?





What is one thing you are nervous about or fear?





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Cool Down

One Word Wonder

After today's discussion, what one word describes how you feel about going to high school?




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