Home | Work & Business | Education | School Activities | School Activities for Third Through Fifth Graders

School Activities for Third Through Fifth Graders

by Contributing Writer

Overview

Keeping the school environment appealing requires creative thinking and dedicated planning. This is especially true when trying to maintain the attention of third to fifth graders. Since you're competing with the latest video games television shows, keeping your approach fresh is critical. Incorporating fun activities into the curriculum can show that educational opportunities don't always have to include tests and book reports.
Academic Competitions

Allowing third to fifth grade students a chance to battle each other in academic competitions can enhance classroom instruction. It can also help you instill the value of hard work and encourage students to strive for more than just "good grades." Suitable events include elimination-style competitions such as spelling bees and, performance-based battles such as trivia contests. Subjects such as geography, history and current events make appropriate choices for elementary school competitions. Hosting periodic project-based contests is anther way to inspire students to try their best. For example, science fairs are a popular way for students to display their curiosity and ability to follow directions. Organize competitions as either individual or team activities. Awarding prizes such as recognition certificates, trophies or ribbons to winners can encourage maximum participation.

Athletic Competitions

Although school lessons primarily focus on academic advancement, devoting time to athletic activities can also benefit young students. Important social skills such as good sportsmanship and the ability to function within a team can be learned through interactive games and contests. Organizing field day competitions that feature a variety of individual and team athletic contests can motivate students to play hard. Suitable events include relay races, jump rope contests and soccer games. Encouraging each classroom to create team shirts can help create both on and off-the-field camaraderie. Participating in intramural athletic events can help build teamwork within the "rivaling" classrooms. Suitable team games include volleyball, softball and soccer. Asking parents to attend athletic festivities can help create a supportive atmosphere. Supplying bottled water and snacks during the competitions can ensure students are healthy and safe. Awarding prizes such as ribbons, goodie bags and trophies can encourage students to aim high.
Field Trips

Taking elementary school students on educational excursions can enhance their understanding of course material. It can also help them learn important social behaviors and eliminate classroom boredom. Although places such as museums and observatories make obvious choices for educational field trips, using your creativity can help uncover other useful locations. Selecting destinations based on classroom learning objectives can also increase the effect of field trips. For example, touring a post office or bakery during career week can give students a first-hand view of different workplaces.