I would like to give you 5 tips on how to be successful in 5th grade this year so that you are prepared and ready to go once the school year begins.
#1: MAKE MISTAKES!!! If you are making mistakes, then you are making new things, trying new things, learning, living, pushing yourself, changing yourself, and changing our world. The ONLY BAD mistake is the one in which you are NOT learning from! Mistakes help us learn and grow as individuals. They push us forward to make us better, so make mistakes this year.
#2: RAISE YOUR HAND!!! Raising your hand shows that you are here. Giving an answer shows that you are listening. Explaining why that’s your answer shows that you are thinking. Be an active and engaged learner, and always raise your hand.
#3: BE POSITIVE!!! I never want to hear you say that you can’t do something. I want you to understand The Power of YET. You will come across some challenging material this year, but stay positive by using the power of the word “YET.” Instead of saying, “I can’t do this.” Take a deep breath, and add a “yet” to the end of your sentence. “I can’t do this yet!” How about instead of, “I don’t get it.” You say, “I don’t get it yet!” It may not be easy, but you will and you can meet the challenge. Stay positive and think positively by using the power of “yet.”
#4: TALK TO ME!!! I have been known to have a gift of gab, meaning I talk a lot. Therefore, this is something that is very easy for me. However, I know there are some of you who are more on the shy, reserved side. Whether you have those character traits or not, it is vital that you communicate with me at all times. If something or someone is bothering you, I want to know about it. If your mind is busy worrying about other things going on in your life, it cannot do its job here at school. Plus, I care about you and whatever you are dealing with. I want to be here for you to help you in any way I can. I am on your side, but I cannot help you if I do not know what is going on. Please, come talk to me whenever you feel you need or want to.
#5: BE KIND!!! Each and every person in our classroom is an original, which means they are priceless! I don’t want copies or imitations…I want everyone to be and feel free to be their original selves. In order for that to happen, we must have a kind environment to thrive in. The happiness of our classroom depends upon the quality of our thoughts and words. Every act of kindness will strengthen our classroom. A bad attitude is like a flat tire. You can’t go anywhere until you change it. It’s the same in a classroom. One bad attitude can take away the learning that needs to take place. Everyone needs to feel like they mean something and they count. Be somebody who makes everybody feel like a somebody… there is power in positivity, so be kind.
If you follow these 5 tips, you will be successful this year in 5th grade!