media literacy lesson plans elementary
media literacy lesson plans elementary
In Pursuit of Perfection
Running Head: In Pursuit of Perfection: Middle School Drama
In Pursuit of Perfection: Middle School Drama
Lisa Askew
Troy State University
1264 Co Rd 455
Lanett, Al. 36863
334-642-1403
askewla@chambersk12.org
Abstract
Middle childhood is the period of life between ages 6 – 12 years. It is a time of life that is often unbalanced. Just like a middle child in a family, the middle scholar is not the oldest and not the youngest. On one end you have elementary school, on the other end you have high school, and in the middle are children that are trying to figure themselves out. Middle school children are making friends outside the immediate family, mastering new physical and mental skills, and becoming more and more independent. This period in their lives can be one of the most stressful. It’s a time of development, a time of trying to fit in, a time of self exploration, and a time of conscientious awareness. For parents, the middle-school child can be a nightmare. Every day, you are faced with a different person. This paper will examine the pressures they feel to perform academically, to develop the right self image, to discover who they are, and the pressure to fit in. It will enlighten us on how we can better help them develop and provide them with the support they need.
In Pursuit of Perfection: Middle School Drama
For children going into the middle school, there are many anxieties, fears, and uneasy feelings to deal with and overcome. As an elementary school counselor, I always feel apprehensive about sending my 5th grade students over to the middle school. I fear what they will encounter and I wonder how they will cope with the changes that they are certain to encounter as they make this transition. I try to put myself in their shoes. What are they thinking? How are they feeling? What is running through their minds? They are leaving the safety of the elementary grades where teachers handle everything from teaching lessons to blood noses in a cozy, self-contained classroom. In elementary school, they’ve have six years to become familiar with the same faculty, lunchroom workers, teachers, and other students. They are often in the same classroom with the same friends for several years, but it all changes as they enter the middle school arena. At the middle school, several small elementary school come together to form a mini college. Middle schools are larger than elementary schools, the school work is harder to do, and there are more classes and more teachers, all with different expectations and personalities. They are not known on a personal level, but rather among many trying to find their way. They are pushed to form new relationships, to build new reputations, and to develop a sense of belonging. And all of this takes place as they deal with new bodies that are expanding, stretching, and developing. Middle school children deal with pressure to perform academically, developing the right image, deciding who they are and figuring out where they fit in.
Where Do I Fit In?
The typical middle school child is highly distractible, peer-centered, confused by abstracts, unable to stay quiet and full of insecurities from living inside a body that is not fully formed. At this stage they are attempting to discover where they fit in. They are establishing friendships and building relationships. They have left the security of the elementary school. They have left friends and previous acquaintances that have been established over years and are forced into developing new acquaintances.
For every aspect, their school life has changed. They are caught in between high school life and elementary school life. They are changing classes throughout the day. They no longer rotate with their same homeroom. They are exposed to new circumstances and new requirements.
Without question, the move from elementary school to middle school is a tough one. Grades 5-8 are the toughest socially and emotionally for all students. They spend the majority of their time trying not to be noticed for fear of being laughed at or bullied. Not to mention, that they are also experiencing puberty. Hormones are causing them to be more territorial and explosive. They are full of energy and unsure of how to express it. What was once acceptable at the elementary level is now frowned upon at the Jr. high. They spend the majority of their time trying to figure out “Where Do I Fit in?”
Developing the Right Image
Few things are more central to our long-term health and happiness than how we view ourselves. Our body image is a vitally important part of our self-image. Our perception of our body often is influenced by how we think others view us. Not meeting these expectations frequently places students in a state of conflict that results in reduced self-esteem and leads to unhealthy diet and exercise practices. The unhealthy practices commonly associated with body image issues may lead some students to become extremely underweight, while others become overweight or obese. Issues involving body image are present in all age groups and both genders in our society. A healthy body image should be a goal of everyone, regardless of his or her circumstances.
Often I watch the Disney channel and other popular shows that teenagers are interested in and I can’t help but notice all the perfect bodies that are portrayed on television. Very often in the mainstream media, we only see a very narrow sampling of the wide spectrum of body shape and sizes that exist.
During the middle school years, students become more aware of their outer appearance. Because our society is highly focused on appearance, body image becomes central to a young person’s feelings of self-esteem and self–worth. Their achievement in other aspects of life (academics, sports, volunteerism, friendships, etc) seem relatively unimportant as this on “how they look” overshadows all else (Montana Nutrition Team, 2003).
Disordered eating has become a significant health risk for adolescents in the U.S. In a study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA, 2007) it was reported that the most critical forces influencing adolescent health risk behavior are the family and school contexts. Classroom intervention focusing on problem solving, decision making, assertiveness, communication and stress management are thought to be most effective in reducing health risk behaviors among adolescents. Additionally, training in media literacy can help students analyze media messages and reject those that convey the message that human value is equated with the ideal body image. Finally, by altering school policies to support acceptance of diversity and zero tolerance for harassment, the school environment can serve as a foundation on which to build positive self-esteem and body image and ultimately decrease the incidence of eating disorders among this population.
The Pressure to Perform
Many parents express each year the fears that they have about their children performing
academically at the middle school. In elementary school their child generally made all A’s or all
A’s and B’s. Grades have a tendency to drop the first semester of middle school for some students as they adjust to new teaching techniques and new requirements. Middle school is a world much different from the structured, hand-holding atmosphere of the elementary school, but rather, a place that’s a fashion show, a popularity contest, and a place where adolescents learn the true meaning of a “bad hair day.”
There’s an increase in the student work load. Students have a noticeably increase in reports, projects, and long-term assignments. Assignments often have due dates and timelines. This type of work becomes a major transition for these students. Academic performance in middle school has been used in the past to determine the success of students in the high school. High schools use standardized score, classroom grades, and attendance records to predict academic success.
Therefore parents have a right to be concerned about how their child will perform in Jr. High school. In this section, I would like to offer a few suggestions to help parents stay ahead of the game. When planning your child’s schedule, try to choose teachers that have a reputation for being easy to work with. Encourage the school to use strategies that were successful on the elementary level. Parents should be proactive by attending meetings and talking to teachers to give them a positive profile of your child’s abilities and your expectations. Parents should also introduce themselves to the principal or vice principal (whoever handles discipline), the guidance counselor, and the members of the middle school child study team. Establishing a positive rapport makes it easier to work together should difficulties arise. And above all else, parents should remain positive about experiencing the middle school with their child. Encourage them and give them a positive outlook.
Conclusion
Without a doubt the transition from elementary school to middle school is one of the biggest transitions a student will ever make. They are presented with new challenges and new expectations. Students are expected to be able to handle a new level of independence that they’ve never had before. It is important that parents are supportive and that the lines of communication are open when dealing with the middle school child. Expectations should be clear and attainable. Middle school children need support, guidance, and boundaries. With a great support system and a little love, their middle school years can be rewarding and successful.
References
Anderman, E., Maehr, M., & Midgley, C. (1999). Declining motivation after the transition to
middle school: Schools can make a difference. Journal of Research and Development in
Education, 32(3), 131-147.
Shure, M. (2000). Raising a Thinking Preteen. 1-256
Lavizzo-Mourey, R. (2007). Childhood Obesity: What it means for physicians. Journal of the
American Medical Association, 98, 920-922
Muth, K., Polizzi, N., & Glrin, S. (2007). Using middle school dilemmas for case-based
professional development. Middle School Journal, 38, 4-9
Johnston, J. H. (1998). Family involvement models in middle schools. In M. L. Fuller & G.
Olsen (Eds.), Home-school relations: Working successfully with parents and families
(pp. 191–207). Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.
Pomerantz, E. M., Moorman, E. A., & Litwack, S. D. (2007). The how, whom, and why of
parents’ involvement in children’s academic lives: More is not always better. Review of
Educational Research, 77(3), 373–410.
http://www.opi.state.mt.us , Montana State University
About the Author
Assignment: Media Literacy (elementary school unit 2)
|
|
iHome iP43LVC Dual Alarm Clock Radio for your iPod/iPhone with Pillow Shaker (Blue) $75.95 Sla 12v 18ahupg 85977/d5745 sealed lead acid batteries (12v; 18 ah; ub12180). Specs: used in ups backup systems, spotlights, flashlights, exit lighting & other equipment; 12v; 18 ah; ub12180. Refurb: n. Returnable: y. Warranty: one year……. |
|
|
Dual Alrm Clck Rad Iphone/ipod Purple Charge Play Or Wake $91.77 iHome IP43UV Desktop Clock Radio IP43UV Clocks… |
|
|
Alex Super Baking set – 18 Piece Metal and Plastic Set $16.99 Measure, mix, prep, and bake some imaginary treats| This 18-piece set features a loaf pan, bear pan, heart pan, mixing bowl, rolling pin, whisk, measuring spoons and cup, pastry wheel, 2 star cookie cutters, 2 heart cookie cutter, and an oven mitt. Bon Appetit|… |
|
|
Passion of the Christ: Songs (Original Songs Inspired by the Film) $7.00 … |
|
|
Egyptian Hieroglyphs Made Easy $26.50 Learning and understanding of the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic language. The hieroglyphic script was the longest lived and earliest form of the Egyptian language. Its use was limited primarily to religious and monumental inscriptions, whereas a more cursive script called hieratic was preferred for administrative and epistolary purposes. Hieroglyphic Egyptian employs pictures of objects, each with… |
|
|
Promised Land [CD-ROM] Queensryche’s follow-up to the double-platinum Empire is something of an acquired taste, but it’s well worth the effort. There’s considerable variety here; the heavy progressive-rock of “I Am I” and the ballad “Bridge” were hit singles, but there’s also the funk-inflected “Disconnected”, the edgy, spooky “Lady Jane”, and the piano-and-vocals “Someone Else?”. The title track is probably the stronge… |
|
|
Scarface – Vinyl Wall Decals Murals Stickers Art Graphic – 44H x29W – by üBer Decals Better than wallpaper, wall stickers are a perfect way to decorate your room and express yourself. They are a fun, easy and removable decor solution. These stickers are pre-cut and will only take you several minutes to apply on any surface – walls, doors, windows, and more. Each of our designs come with easy instructions to follow. This is an original design from uBer Decals. All other sellers are… |
|
|
Swirly Tree 3 – Vinyl Wall Decals Murals Stickers Art Graphic – 45H x56W – by üBer Decals Better than wallpaper, wall stickers are a perfect way to decorate your room and express yourself. They are a fun, easy and removable decor solution. These stickers are pre-cut and will only take you several minutes to apply on any surface – walls, doors, windows, and more. Each of our designs come with easy instructions to follow. This is an original design from uBer Decals. All other sellers are… |
|
|
Modern Floral Bird – Vinyl Wall Decals Murals Stickers Art Graphic – 46H x29W – by üBer Decals Better than wallpaper, wall stickers are a perfect way to decorate your room and express yourself. They are a fun, easy and removable decor solution. These stickers are pre-cut and will only take you several minutes to apply on any surface – walls, doors, windows, and more. Each of our designs come with easy instructions to follow. This is an original design from uBer Decals. All other sellers are… |
|
|
Tiger Balm Analgesic Tiger Muscle Rub … |
|
|
Gecko Nasal Pad – Large, 4.12 Long $24.80 The Gecko Nasal Pad (formerly the Sleep Comfort Care Pad by Sequal) is intended for patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) who experience pain and discomfort on or around the bridge of their nose associated with using nasal or full face masks. The pad acts as a cushion between the patient’s face and mask, and is simply placed across the bridge of the nose under the mask. The protective polyme… |
|
|
REN Tamanu High Glide Shaving Oil $27.00 Results: Shaving is easier and closer; skin feels fit, nourished and supple…. |
|
|
Kuzy® – AQUA BLUE Keyboard Silicone Cover Skin for Macbook / Macbook Pro 13 15 17 Aluminum Unibody $1.00 Dress up your MacBook Pro in fashionable color, silicone protection now. *** Will Not fit MacBook Air 11″ ***… |
|
|
Kuzy – PURPLE Keyboard Silicone Cover Skin for Macbook / Macbook Pro 13 15 17 Aluminum Unibody $2.00 Dress up your MacBook Pro in fashionable color, silicone protection now. *** Will Not fit MacBook Air 11″ ***… |
|
|
Kuzy – Circles Blue/White Keyboard Silicone Cover Skin for Macbook / Macbook Pro 13 15 17 Aluminum Unibody $9.95 Dress up your MacBook Pro in fashionable color, silicone protection now. *** Will Not fit MacBook Air 11″ ***… |
|
|
Omaha Steaks Prime Rib Roasts Prime Rib Roasts… |
|
|
KIKE CALVO photo illustrations FREAKLANCES Collection – Freaklance Fausto with bike graphic tablet and keyword – Coffee Gift Baskets – Coffee Gift Basket $44.99 Freaklance Fausto with bike graphic tablet and keyword Coffee Gift Basket is measuring 9x9x4. Contains 15oz mug, BONUS free set of 4 coasters, biscotti and 5 blends of gourmet coffee. French Vanilla, Kenya AA, Decaf Colombian Supremo, Chocolate and Italian Roast Espresso elegantly presented in our signature black planet coffee gift box. A very nice and thoughtful gift for any occasion…. |
|
|
Betty Lous Organic Harmony Hippy Happy Apple Bar Case Pack 24 – 683021 $116.33 1.75 oz bar. Vegan. USDA organic. Ingredients: organic apple cinnamon granola [organic oats, organic maple syrup, organic oat flour, organic crisped rice (organic brown rice, malt syrup - GF, sea salt), organic brown rice syrup, organic walnuts, organic sunflower seeds, organic expeller pressed high oleic sunflower oil, organic unsulfured dried apples, organic cinnamon, organic vanilla, sea salt],… |
|
|
Green Toys Sand Play Set $11.00 Kids will ‘dig’ building castles and hunting for buried treasure with the environmentally friendly Sand Play Set from Green ToysTM. Made of recycled plastic, this classic 4-piece collection of tools consists of a bucket, sand castle mold, shovel and rake. Made in the U.S.A from recycled plastic milk containers, which helps save energy, reduces landfill waste, and lowers greenhouse gas emissions, a… |
|
|
Alex Toys Draw like A Pro $34.87 A fun and easy way to draw…just turn down the lights, switch on the projector, insert a preprinted slide and trace away| Comes with 124 slides, 6 markers, 10 sheets of paper, and a flip book…. |
|
|
Alex Color A Flower Bag $20.86 Dazzling flowers| This fashionable bag measures 14?W x 11?H x 4?D – big enough for school books and binders. Includes 6 permanent markers in a cool pouch that can be colored, too|… |
|
|
KONNET iCrado Original, Stylish Metal Charging Dock / Cradle / Stand for iPhone, iPhone 3G, 3GS and iPod (Black) The KONNET iCrado is an easy to install cradle for your iPhone or iPod. With its unique distinctive design, it demonstrates the userâs personal style. The front is designed with a wide opening to give users the quick convenience of charging the iPhone or iPod without removing the protective case. The iCrado has a dedicated port to fit the Appleâs 30-pin USB cable to charge and sync the i… |
|
|
HYUNDAI SANTA FE 2010-2012 SUV Trucks Auto Center Armrest Console Cover Center Armrest covers protect, renew and add comfort to the center console of your vehicle. This cover fits a 2010-2012 HYUNDAI SANTA FE. Picture shown is of an example of our product on a center armrest. Cover is made from a fleece fabric and is machine washable… |
|
|
TOYOTA CAMRY 2000-2002 Car (not pictured) SUV Truck Van Auto Center Armrest Console Cover Center Armrest covers protect, renew and add comfort to the center console of your vehicle. This cover fits a 2000-2002 TOYOTA CAMRY. Picture shown is not of your vehicle but an example of our product on a center armrest. Cover is made from a fleece fabric and is machine wasable… |
|
|
The Sims 3: Outdoor Living Stuff $10.00 For the first time ever, your Sims can get the best in outdoor luxury for their homes. Whether they’re decorating the perfect patio, setting the mood with a cool new hot tub, or firing up a state-of-the-art grill for the ultimate BBQ, your Sims’ outdoor decor is getting a boost. Give your Sims everything they need for a stylish and comfortable outdoor living space with The Sims 3 Outdoor Living!Fe… |
|
|
The Ultimate Library…10,000 Books on Cd-rom This 4 CD-ROM set includes: Volume One Volume Two |
|
|
COSMI 1000 Best Games For Windows ( Windows ) $2.00 … |
|
|
Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 -Old Version $56.00 Adobe Photoshop Elements 8 software combines power and simplicity so you can make your photos look extraordinary, share your life stories in unique print creations and web experiences, and easily manage and protect all your photos and video clips…. |
|
|
Photo Explosion Deluxe 3.0 $7.62 Photo Explosion® Deluxe made history as the first software of its kind to deliver powerful editing features spectacular special effects and professional-quality photo projects all together in one program. Now Photo Explosion Deluxe 3.0 makes digital photography even easier. And it s packed with exciting new features all designed to let you get the most out of your digital camera.System Require… |
|
|
Star Wars: Lost Tribe of the Sith #2: Skyborn $1.00 Don’t miss Star Wars: Lost Tribe of The Sith: Skyborn a FREE original eBook short story, the second in a series that tell the untold story of the Fate of the Jedi’s forgotten Sith castaways, their battle to survive, and their quest to re-conquer the galaxy! DECEIVE AND CONQUER A Jedi ambush leaves the Sith ship Omen marooned on a remo… |
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
