If I were to ask you to choose one word to describe how you’re feeling about the new school year, what would it be?
What might be a second word?
And a third?
Activities like this capitalize on the power of constraint. Our word choice has to be precise when we have limited words to use. How might you use this method with students to find out how they are feeling about the school year? Student word choices are revealing and quickly provide you with a snapshot of the emotion and energy in front of you.
A few alternatives… Ask students to write down the words rather than share them orally. Generate a list of words that students could choose from if they can’t think of one on their own.
As you dive into the new school year, remember: “Success is not the key to happiness. Happiness is the key to success. If you love what you are doing, you will be successful.” – Albert Schweitzer