What Are Examples of Unique Extracurricular Programs?
In the quest to enhance student engagement and learning, we've gathered insights from four educators on unique extracurricular programs they've implemented. From creative writing and filmmaking programs to starting a school apiary and beekeeping club, explore these inspiring strategies for holistic education.
- Creative Writing and Filmmaking Meet ELA Standards
- Student-Initiated Clubs Foster Belonging
- Traditional Dances Enhance Cultural Education
- Beekeeping Provides Hands-On Biology Experience
Creative Writing and Filmmaking Meet ELA Standards
I teach at a continuation high school, and it can be difficult to motivate students to complete work for content classes. English can be a slog for many of these students, so I love looking for ways to introduce new methods of delivering instruction. One of the programs I found for our students is called "Writer's Den," and the other is called "Making Movies That Matter."
Writer's Den is hosted by college students at UCLA. College students come to our high school twice a week and meet with students. They help students write their own creative writing stories, from brainstorming all the way through to printing. At the end, students get a paperback book. They choose a cover design and a theme for their stories. It's a rewarding process for students, and they have a tangible item to keep after high school.
Another program we implemented is called "Making Movies That Matter." For this program, we ask students to come up with an idea—a fictional story, a documentary, or a public service announcement. Students then brainstorm ideas and write out potential storylines. Then, they film using video cameras and sound equipment. Students learn to cut, edit, and add in all the features of movies. We submit our films to a local film festival every year. The students get to dress up and walk on a red carpet at the festival.
My students are not easily motivated, but these programs motivate them and help them see the value of completing projects. I also hit many of the ELA content standards while doing them. It's a win-win for everyone.
Student-Initiated Clubs Foster Belonging
Our school allows students to find a teacher as an advisor and propose forming a club or activity that meets their interests. We have many such clubs, including ones that focus on baking, fishing, or calligraphy. A key is helping students know that clubs are available and getting key information into their hands—and helping them learn the process for promoting new clubs. The benefits to students in terms of increasing their feelings of belonging and involvement with the school are immense.
Traditional Dances Enhance Cultural Education
On several occasions, my school hosted traditional square dances and Irish dances, complete with a caller (me). This was a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about traditional culture, experience community and bonding, and enjoy the spirit-lifting exercise of dance. A good education forms the whole person, including the body and the emotions, and that's what traditional dance can do. It's also a great way to stay connected with one's heritage.
Beekeeping Provides Hands-On Biology Experience
I started beekeeping with my dad when he retired and thought it was a super-interesting pastime. As a high school biology teacher, I felt beekeeping had such important ties to the curriculum and would provide rewarding hands-on experience for the students. I started an on-site apiary and beekeeping club at the school a few years ago. Since then, several students have gone on to take certified beekeeping courses, and one has started a hive of their own. It has brought the community at large together, as there is a natural curiosity and a market to sell the honey. It connects us as a school.