Lesson Plan

Finish Strong Lesson Plan

Students will reflect on their 8th-grade achievements, set SMART end-of-year goals, and establish peer support commitments to finish the school year strong.

This lesson empowers transitioning 8th graders to recognize accomplishments, stay motivated, and collaboratively overcome end-of-year challenges, boosting confidence as they move to high school.

Audience

Time

Approach

Materials

Prep

Teacher Preparation

10 minutes

Step 1

Warm-Up Discussion

5 minutes

Step 2

End-of-Year Reflection

10 minutes

Step 3

Goal-Setting Activity

10 minutes

Step 4

Peer Support & Closing

5 minutes

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Slide Deck

Finish Strong

Welcome everyone! Introduce yourself and explain that today’s session is all about finishing 8th grade with confidence by reflecting on successes, setting goals, and building peer support.

Warm-Up: Celebrate Your Wins

Explain the warm-up: each student names one accomplishment they’re proud of. Record responses on chart paper to set a positive tone.

End-of-Year Reflection

Distribute the [End-of-Year Reflection Worksheet](#end-of-year-reflection-worksheet). Give students 5 minutes to complete it, then invite a few volunteers to share.

Setting SMART Goals

Briefly define each SMART component and show an example. Hand out the [Goal-Setting Action Plan Template](#goal-setting-action-plan-template). Give students time to draft 1–2 goals, then have them partner up to share and offer one supportive suggestion.

Peer Support Commitments

Distribute the [Peer Support Agreement Sheet](#peer-support-agreement-sheet). In pairs, have students agree on at least one accountability action (e.g., study together, check in weekly). Have pairs share commitments aloud.

Closing & Next Steps

Summarize the session’s key takeaways and encourage students to keep their goals visible. Thank them for their participation and enthusiasm.

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Worksheet

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Finish Strong

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Emily Castrejon

Tier 2
For Schools
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