Strengths and Weaknesses Display

At the beginning of they year, I think it is important for the students to take a look at themselves as learners and reflect upon those things they do well, and areas on which they can improve.

In order to do this, I have the students write two paragraphs, one about their strengths, and one about their weaknesses.  Using a divided circle map, the kids list everything they excel at as a learner, and all of the things they need to work on.  They then, using a communication guide (as I have low EL students...one of our district focuses are on communication guides) write two paragraphs, one for the strengths and one for the weaknesses.

Now here is the fun part.  I have the kids go outside and hold a broomstick over their heads.  One side is slightly lower than the other.

They then write the final draft of their paragraphs on paper shaped like dumbbell weights.

The students cut the paper out, glue it onto their picture, and, viola, an instantly cute display!

I have them back it on a blue piece of paper to serve as the "weight lifting mat"...just so the people look like they are standing on something!

All together, the board looks like this ----------->

I do this each year and really, it is such a great way to get to know the students as learners, as well as have them see that we all aren't great at everything!  All of the templates for this can be found in my Back to School Goal Setting Pack (and 4 other complete lessons as well).