Service learning is a popular concept being implemented in many middle schools today. Following a few easy steps can turn service learning ideas into action.
Service learning is taking place more and more frequently in middle schools. Service learning projects are commonly completed through advisory classes; however, they are often associated with and completed in both exploratory and core classes, as well.
Service learning allows students to use their time, talents, and resources to help improve life for others and in turn enhance their own lives at the same time. Service learning projects can be as basic and simple or as complex and involved as middle school teachers, teams, and students make them. Below is a general outline that anyone can follow in order to plan and implement service learning anytime, anywhere.
- Choose a cause. Decide who or what you want to help. Survey students to see where their interests lie. Discuss whether they want to help a local, national, or international cause. Present as many options as possible and then choose the cause that makes the most sense for your group at the time.
- Pick a project. Figure out what you would like to do to help your chosen cause. Brainstorm with students to generate as many ideas as you can. Then, make sure to consider the who, what, when, where, why, and how of the ideas to help you narrow down what is and is not possible, keeping in mind time, funding, resources and personnel available. While it’s important to dream big, the project must be practical so that it can be completed successfully.
- Make a plan. Considering the information you used to help you select your project, plan out all of the details from beginning to end. Cover all the bases and try to troubleshoot ahead of time, making a plan B to combat any complications. Set the plan aside for a day or two and then review it one last time before you put it into action.
- Share your news. Contact anyone and everyone you can to let them know about your planned project. Other teachers, parents, the community, local volunteer groups—tell people what you’re doing and why. Most likely, people will want to help and there’s a good chance you can find a way in which they can. Let people know by getting your exciting project out there through your school’s website, the district newsletter, a local newspaper or any other information source.
- Go for it! Carry out your plan and complete your project! Keep in mind that things might not go exactly as planned or problems might pop up here and there; but that’s okay! Stay focused on why you’re doing what you’re doing—to improve life for someone or something else—and by doing your best, you will achieve your goal. Your service learning project will be a success and could easily be a gift that keeps on giving through the lives of all those touched by it!
The copyright of the article Service Learning Projects in Middle/High School is owned by Amy Horn. Permission to republish Service Learning Projects must be granted by the author in writing.
