This week in Advisory, students participated in a "Focus Boot Camp" called Concentration Commotion. The goal was to help them understand that the most difficult part of a test often isn't the questions themselves, but rather staying focused in a room full of potential distractions.
Students practiced solving math problems, logic puzzles, and spelling complex words backward while their classmates tried to distract them with silly dances, whispers, or funny faces. This activity wasn't just for fun; it allowed students to find their own "Focus Anchors"—personal strategies like closing their eyes or picking a specific spot on the floor to stare at to keep their concentration.
The lesson reminded students that if they can spell "Hypothesis" backward while a classmate does the chicken dance in front of them, they have the "mental muscle" to handle a ticking clock or a quiet cough during a real exam. We want our students to feel confident and prepared, knowing they have the tools to stay on track no matter what is happening around them.
To further prepare for the testing season, students also created motivational posters. During state testing, we are required to cover up educational wall materials. Instead of using blank paper, students designed their own encouraging messages and artwork to display. These posters turn our testing environment into a more positive, supportive space, reminding everyone that they have the "mental muscle" to succeed!
