Resolution 1: Use Interesting Lesson Plans

Happy 2001! Many times, as the date changes on the calendar, students are motivated to begin anew. They make resolutions to make better grades and to try harder. But just like any resolution, that is much easier said than done. Just look at all the people who claim, “This is the year I will lose those extra 20 pounds.” Only to find themselves the exact same weight or sometimes a few pounds more a year later. As teachers or parents, you need to jump on this opportunity to help your students or children. Teachers need to design lessons that spark interest, which usually means relating the lessons to real life. Parents need to be interested in what’s going on in their child’s life. In fact, parents should make a resolution themselves to be more involved in their child’s life.

With what types of activities can teachers begin 2001? First think about what each of your students may have experienced over the holidays. (Writing in prose or poetry are perfect assignments for the following as are public speaking, role-playing, and discussion) Sure the obvious—presents, comes to mind. But what about family? Did a student go to Texas over the holidays? Or perhaps the student stayed home and had family visit from out of town. Was that a chore or a delight? What ways could that student make a next visit more enjoyable?

Or maybe you want to focus on the delights of food. A student may have a story to tell about Aunt Ruth’s pumpkin bread. Or another might tell the story about the effects of eating too much candy.

One of my favorite topics is probably the unexpected gifts you give, receive, or witness over the holidays. For instance, this past Christmas a distant relative gave birth to her first born on Christmas day. She wasn’t supposed to have her baby for another few days, but her water broke and labor began. That child will forever be the best Christmas gift her parents could ask for. Or another, I heard the story of two snow mobilers who found a man buried under the snow in his vehicle. They saved his life, just by mere accident. Funny how one accident can lead to an accidental finding and a Christmas season to remember for the rest of one’s life.

My point is, find something unique, not necessarily the obvious when discussing the holiday season.

New Year’s resolutions can be touched on—maybe not, “This is my resolution….” But perhaps, “This is my resolution and this is how I plan to keep my resolution.” Have students set goals throughout the remainder of the school year. Use actual dates (teachers, you can even use these updates for grades). For instance, if a student decides he wants to read more during 2001, he can set a goal to read at least 4 books per month. On February 1st, he should record his progress. Did he keep his goal? If not, how can the goal be met for the rest of the year? Does it need to be modified? By showing students that failed goals one month, doesn’t mean that the resolution should be abandoned all together, might actually help the student in years to come (even in adult life).

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