Mission: Middle School

Michael Aboulafia

Tier 3

Lesson Plan

Mission: Middle School Lesson Plan

In two 30-minute sessions, the student will review and celebrate growth in problem solving, flexible thinking, and relationship building, then set personalized goals for a smooth transition to middle school.

This wrap-up consolidates key skills, builds confidence through celebration, and empowers the student to apply strategies and set clear goals for 6th grade success.

Audience

5th Grade Student

Time

Two 30-minute sessions

Approach

Interactive review, reflection, and goal-setting activities.

Materials

Growth Reflection Worksheet, Problem Solving Strategies Review, Flexible Thinking Checklist, Relationship Building Role-Play Cards, Goal Setting Template, and Celebration Certificate

Prep

Prepare Materials

10 minutes

Print copies of the Growth Reflection Worksheet, Problem Solving Strategies Review, Flexible Thinking Checklist, Relationship Building Role-Play Cards, Goal Setting Template, and Celebration Certificate.
Review each material to familiarize yourself with prompts and activities.
Arrange a quiet, comfortable seating area for one-on-one discussion.
Ensure a timer or clock is available to track each 30-minute session.

Step 1

Session 1: Review and Celebrate

30 minutes

Welcome student and outline session goals (2 min).
Use the Problem Solving Strategies Review to discuss one challenge from the year; have the student explain how they applied strategies (8 min).
Introduce the Flexible Thinking Checklist; student rates their use of each skill and shares an example (8 min).
Practice relationship skills with two cards from the Relationship Building Role-Play Cards; student role-plays both parts (7 min).
Complete the Growth Reflection Worksheet to note top strengths and improvements (3 min).
Present the Celebration Certificate, praising specific achievements (2 min).

Step 2

Session 2: Goal Setting for Middle School

30 minutes

Recap skills reviewed in Session 1 and connect to upcoming middle school challenges (3 min).
Introduce the Goal Setting Template; explain SMART goals (3 min).
Collaboratively set two academic or social goals for 6th grade, writing them on the template (10 min).
Discuss action steps and resources needed for each goal (8 min).
Role-play applying a strategy or skill toward one goal using a card from the Relationship Building Role-Play Cards or Problem Solving Strategies Review (5 min).
Close with positive affirmations, recap goals, and plan a check-in date in early 6th grade (1 min).

Worksheet

Growth Reflection Worksheet

Name: ________________________ Date: ____________

1. My Top Strengths

Think about the skills you’ve practiced this year—problem solving, flexible thinking, and building relationships. List two that you feel you’ve improved the most:

2. ____________________________________________

2. Problem Solving Reflection

Describe a challenge you faced this year. What was the problem?
Which problem-solving strategy did you use (for example: breaking the problem into steps, asking for help, trying a different approach)? How did this strategy help you?

3. Flexible Thinking Reflection

Recall a time when things didn’t go as planned (a surprise test, a change in schedule, or a group project). What did you do to adjust?
How did being flexible help you in that situation?

4. Relationship Building Reflection

Think of a positive interaction you had with a classmate, friend, or teacher. What actions or words made it positive?
What is one thing you can do next year to keep building strong, supportive relationships?

5. Celebration & Looking Ahead

What are you most proud of from this school year?
As you get ready for middle school, what is one personal goal you’d like to set for yourself?

Worksheet

Problem Solving Strategies Review

Name: ________________________ Date: ____________

Think about a challenge you faced this year. Review each strategy, read the description, then write an example of when you used it (or could have used it).

Breaking the problem into smaller steps
- Description: Split a big problem into smaller, easier tasks to tackle one at a time.
- My Example:
Asking for help
- Description: Reach out to a teacher, friend, or family member for guidance or support.
- My Example:
Trying a different approach
- Description: If your first idea didn’t work, think of another way to solve the problem.
- My Example:
Making a plan and checking progress
- Description: Create a step‐by‐step plan, set small goals, and review how you’re doing.
- My Example:
Staying calm and thinking positive
- Description: Take deep breaths, stay patient, and keep a positive attitude while working through challenges.
- My Example:
Reflecting on what worked and what didn’t
- Description: After solving (or attempting) a problem, think about which steps were helpful and which could improve.
- My Example:

Reflection

Which one of these strategies did you use most this year? Why?
Which strategy will you commit to using more in middle school? How will it help you?

Worksheet

Flexible Thinking Checklist

Name: ________________________ Date: ____________

Read each statement. Circle the rating that best describes you this year. Then give an example of when you did this.

I adjust my plan when things change unexpectedly.
Always / Sometimes / Rarely
Example:
I listen to others’ ideas and try to see different points of view.
Always / Sometimes / Rarely
Example:
I think of more than one way to solve a problem.
Always / Sometimes / Rarely
Example:
I stay calm and find a new approach when things don’t go as planned.
Always / Sometimes / Rarely
Example:
I am open to feedback and willing to change my thinking.
Always / Sometimes / Rarely
Example:

Reflection

Which flexible thinking skill are you strongest in? Why?
Which skill do you want to practice more in middle school? How will you do it?

Activity

Relationship Building Role-Play Cards

Read each card and practice both roles. Pick two cards per session. For each role, think about what you would say and how you would listen. Use the space below each role to jot down ideas or key phrases.

Card 1: Breaking the Ice

Scenario: You’re new to the class, and you want to make a friend during recess.

Role A (New Student): Introduce yourself. Ask about the other person’s interests.

Role B (Classmate): Welcome the new student. Ask a question about them and share something about yourself.

Card 2: Offering Help

Scenario: You notice a classmate struggling with a math problem at their desk.

Role A (Helper): Offer your help. Ask if they’d like you to explain or work together.

Role B (Classmate): Explain what you find confusing. Thank them and ask a follow-up question.

Card 3: Resolving a Misunderstanding

Scenario: You thought a friend ignored your message, and you feel upset.

Role A (You): Share how you felt when your message wasn’t answered. Use “I” statements (e.g., “I felt…”).

Role B (Friend): Explain what really happened (maybe you were busy). Apologize for the mix-up.

Card 4: Inviting to Collaborate

Scenario: You’re working on a group project and notice someone hasn’t been asked to join.

Role A (Organizer): Invite the classmate to join your group. Explain why you’d like their help.

Role B (Invited): Respond kindly. Ask about the project and accept or suggest how you can help.

Card 5: Giving Positive Feedback

Scenario: A friend gave a great presentation in front of the class.

Role A (Listener): Share specific praise (e.g., “I liked how you…”) and tell them why it stood out to you.

Role B (Presenter): Respond with gratitude. Let them know what part you enjoyed most or found helpful.

Card 6: Standing Up with Empathy

Scenario: You see someone being teased for being different.

Role A (Supporter): Speak up kindly. Offer comfort and suggestions for both friends to understand each other.

Role B (Teased Student): Express how the teasing made you feel. Share what you wish people knew about you.

Tip: After each role-play, switch roles and reflect: What felt easy? What was challenging? How did showing empathy or clear communication help?

Worksheet

Goal Setting Template

Name: ________________________ Date: ____________

What Is a SMART Goal?

SMART goals are:

Specific: Clear and detailed.
Measurable: You can track progress.
Achievable: Realistic and within your control.
Relevant: Important to you and your future.
Time-bound: Has a deadline.

Goal 1

Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish?
Measurable: How will you know when you’ve succeeded?
Achievable: What skills or resources do you need?
Relevant: Why is this goal important to your success in middle school?
Time-bound: By when will you achieve this goal?
Action Steps: List 2–3 steps you will take to reach this goal.
a. ________________________________________

b. ________________________________________

c. ________________________________________
Resources & Support: Who or what can help you?

Goal 2

Specific: What exactly do you want to accomplish?
Measurable: How will you know when you’ve succeeded?
Achievable: What skills or resources do you need?
Relevant: Why is this goal important to your success in middle school?
Time-bound: By when will you achieve this goal?
Action Steps: List 2–3 steps you will take to reach this goal.
a. ________________________________________

b. ________________________________________

c. ________________________________________
Resources & Support: Who or what can help you?

Reflection

Which goal feels most exciting or motivating? Why?
When should we plan a check-in to see how you’re doing?

Project Guide

🎉 Celebration Certificate 🎉

This certificate is proudly presented to

______________________________

For demonstrating outstanding growth in:

• Problem Solving
• Flexible Thinking
• Relationship Building

You have shown dedication, resilience, and a positive attitude all year long. Congratulations on your achievements and best wishes as you embark on your middle school journey!

Date Teacher Signature