Moving on up to middle school ----
Starting middle school means big changes and big opportunities! Exited? Not surprising! Middle school has a lot to offer. You may be looking forward to:
*Meeting new people and making new friends.
*More independence.
*Different classes and teachers.
*Learning new things.
*Exploring new activities.
Nervous? You are not alone. But most worries are soon forgotten --- as you discover how enjoyable middle school can be! The "strange" things about middle school will soon feel normal! Moving up to middle school means moving up in life.
What changes can you expect? Here's a sneak peek!
Lots of NEW things.
*Classes-Each class may be in a different room or building. Some classes may be longer than others.
*Rules-You may have new rules on how to dress or behave, for example. Learn and follow them.
*Expectations-Each teacher may have different standards or expectations, for example, some don't accept late work or others may have special requirements for late work. It's your job to ask the teacher(s) if you don't understand something. Remember they can't read your mind and some may have a total of 300 students or more. Teachers are there to help you and they want to help you too!
*Schedules-Yours may be busier than ever before. And it's up to you to get to each class on time.
*Lockers-A place to keep your stuff! Ask a teacher if you need help navigating! Some schools have 8th grade peers to assist you also.
MORE of other things.
*Classmates-The same students may not be in every class. You may see a lot of new faces.
*Teachers-You may have a different teachers for each subject. Remember they are there to help you, not just to teach. They are someone you can trust!
*Choices-You may join extracurricular (after-school) activities, for example.
*Homework-It helps you sharpen new skills and succeed in school.
TWO Keys to ACADEMIC SUCCESS
1. Stay Organized.
*Use and assignment or agenda book or planner - to keep track of upcoming homework, projects and tests.
*Keep your locker neat - so you can quickly find what you need.
*Create a system for taking notes. Teachers usually have a system they want you to follow but if you are unsure ask them for advice. Try using a different section of a binder for each class, or a different-colored notebook for each class.
2. Use Time Wisely.
It may take some practice at first, but it's worth it!
*Set a regular time for homework - and work in a quiet, well-lot space.
*Get a jump-start on the morning - by getting your clothes and backpack ready the night before.
*Break up big projects - use your calendar and planner to help you organize and manage your time. For example, a research project may require you to locate books one week, take notes the next, and begin writing the third week. It is helpful to work backwards, write the date the project/assignment is due, then write the dates you will have each element of project done by. It's helpful to make a daily to-do list and check your calendar/planner daily to help you focus and stay on task.
*Ask for help when you need it! Your teachers WANT to help succeed!
The Best Friendship Advice.
Get Involved. Like to exercise your voice, mind, creativity, or body? Chances are, there's a middle school activity or club for YOU-- and new friends who share your interest.
Be friendly, and a good friend. Flex your smile muscles! Be the first to say hi. And always treat others the way you want to be treated!
Understand Negative Peer Pressure.
It can come on fast and fierce-and cloud your judgement. Steer clear of people who:
*Cheat on tests or homework.
*Skip school.
*Use alcohol and other drugs.
*Fight, bully or carry weapons.
YOU'VE got better things to do!
The real deal on cliques (groups). Sure everyone wants to fit into a group. But if a group disrespects others? Forget it! Feeling the heat of peer pressure? Keep cool-say no and walk away. Ask a trusted adult for more advice.
How To Keep Yourself SAFE.
Stay alert. A bigger school with bigger kids doesn't have to mean trouble! But keep your eyes and ears open, so you know what's going on around you. If you EVER feel unsafe at school, or on your way to or from school tell an adult.
Report bullying.
Being mean to people on purpose STINKS - and it has no place in school. If you:
*See bullying, don't laugh or join in. Show that you're not coll with it - and encourage others to speak up, too. Then tell an adult about what happened.
*Are bullied, calmly tell the person to stop. Then walk away. It's always OKAY to ask a trusted adult for help.
If the person who is bullying has a weapon or you're afraid for your safety, don't argue or fight back! Tell an adult immediately.
Most students DON'T support bullying!
Middle School --- it's a sweet opportunity to grow!
During middle school, your world will change in more ways than you ever imagined. Okay, so you miss recess a little at first. But there's so much else going on! There will be more experiences to share with friends, new skills to learn and more to discover about YOURSELF!
Let others in on your world. Feeling stressed? Have a problem you can't fix? Talk to someone you trust, such as a:
*Parent or another adult family member.
*Teacher or coach.
*School counselor.
*Crisis hotline listed in your phone book. Or goggle it.
Learn. Laugh. Grow. Your middle school adventure awaits!
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