Episode 318: Low-Prep Ways to End the Year with Deep Thinking

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In this episode, you’ll discover simple yet powerful strategies to spark curiosity and connection in your classroom—all while keeping things manageable for you. Let’s flip the script on end-of-year burnout and finish strong with purpose, clarity, and heart. You’ve poured so much into your students all year—now let’s wrap it up in a way that honors that work. You’re almost there, and you’re doing amazing.

Links mentioned in the episode:
Jenna Copper Blog Post on Discussion Panels: https://jennacopper.com/panel-discussions-make-your-students-the-experts-in-five-simple-steps/

Discussion questions mentioned in episode:

• Here are some ideas for this or that to spark discussion—make sure you choose ones that are appropriate for your class, so please use your discernment.
• It’s better to take a risk and fail vs. It’s better to play it safe and succeed
• People can change who they are vs. People stay the same deep down
• It’s more important to be honest vs. It’s more important to be kind
• The past shapes who we are vs. We decide who we become
• Leaders should always listen to others vs. Leaders should trust their own judgment most
• Everyone deserves a second chance vs. Some actions can’t be forgiven
• Rules are meant to be followed vs. Rules are meant to be questioned
• Success is based on hard work vs. Success is based on opportunity
• One person can make a big difference vs. Real change takes a group
• It’s more important to win vs. It’s more important to grow

Reflection Letter Prompts:

• “What’s one belief I’ve changed this year?”
• “If I were to go back in time and give myself advice at the beginning of 8th grade, here’s what I’d say…”
• “What advice would I give to next year’s students?”
• "What was my favorite classroom moment?"
• "What is one thing that was extremely hard for me to do this year, but I did it anyhow."

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