SLP Help Line: Re: middle school students

Re: middle school students

Posted by Jan on 10/26/2009, 8:33 pm, in reply to "middle school students"
71.194.14.129

I use reinforcers (snack at end of every other session) and pick a prize for points earned for coming to their session on their own and for participation (usually every 8-10 weeks).

I use curricular materials for language kids so they can see and buy in to the relevance. If they have to do a presentation, we work on that together. Also, at times, I key in to their interests-if you are doing a compare/contrast activity, compare cars, movies, music genres, vacations, sports, etc.

If artic-once again, relevant to them-curricular or humorous poetry. I saw someone post that they use song lyrics for high schoolers-I may try this.

I have also found that genuine interest in them and their lives/concerns help to establish a relationship whereby they like coming to see YOU and want to please YOU. You could use that as a launchpoint for some good language. Even something as simple as....if they mention boyfriend/girlfriend ask What does that mean in Middle school? What do you do together? If they are having a challenge in a certain class-talk them through some brainstorming to solve the issue. I also offer to help them with difficult homework after school. I'm sure you do some of these things already! It does take some time w/ this age grp! Good Luck!