English

Oral Language 3.1, 3.2, 4.1, 4.2, 5.1, 5.3

Writing 3.10, 4.7, 5.8

Behind the Scenes at School

This activity provides an opportunity for students to meet adult school leaders and observe them in action.

Steps To Complete the Activity

Prior to a visit to various school departments, students study the jobs involved in running the local school. They develop an interview sheet to guide their questions of school leaders. (Examples of questions may include, "How did you become the ______?" "What do you think makes you a good school leader?" "What advice would you give young people who want to contribute to the school?")

Groups of students visit the school departments, observe leaders at work, and interview selected leaders such as the principal, assistant principals, cafeteria manager, head custodian, school secretary, school crossing guard, bus drivers, librarian, school nurse, and guidance counselor. If possible, arrange for small groups or individual students to shadow a leader as he or she works through a morning or afternoon.

To conclude the project, students develop a booklet or written report about the person who, in their opinion, is the most impressive leader, describing his or her job, characteristics, and contributions to the school.

Resources

Civics reference, access to the Internet