Create a memory of elementary school.
Reflect upon the grade school years with a memory-themed project that inspires students, parents and teachers to take a look back at the path from kindergarten through fifth grade. From photos books and collages to heartfelt poetry, students can mark the end of the elementary school journey during a graduation event or party with a uniquely artistic craft or a memory-filled writing project.
Memory Book
A fifth grade memory book is a creative memento of the grade school years that students can keep for themselves, give to a teacher or present as a gift to the principal. Unlike a yearbook, this handmade craft is specific to the class and includes memories of the entire elementary school experience from kindergarten through grade five. Start with a blank scrap or sketch book. Collect photos of the students taken at school parties, celebrations, shows, sports and in class. Make sure to include photos of the actual school building, teachers, school staff members and field trips. Organize the photos into chronological order and by event or occasion. For example, the kindergarten first day of school pictures would come first with fifth grade celebrations last. Add in stenciled or decorative labels for each page.
Written Memories
Create a collection of colorful stories from the fifth grade class to read during a graduation ceremony or party. Ask each student to write one or two paragraphs featuring a special memory from the elementary school years. This may include a field trip, a favorite teacher, a school event or any other occasion relating to the class's time at the school. Copy the individual pages and bind together in book form. Either use metal fasteners, staples or yarn 'sewn' through hole punches to secure the pages together. Give one copy to each student.
Poetry
Compliment a fifth grade graduation with inspirational poetry that contains a memory theme. Help students to craft their own creations or choose from sentimental poems written by Rudyard Kipling, Edgar A. Guest or George Elliot. Choose poetry that can be easily understood by children.
Memory Collage
Instruct fifth graders to design a memory collage using photos and small mementos of the grade school years. Start with a large piece of poster board or a project board that is at least 22 by 28 inches in size. Collect a variety of photos from the elementary school years that feature the students, teachers, school staff members and special occasions. Use nontoxic, clear-drying glue to attach the pictures to the board. For added interest, have the students cut the photos into hearts or circles. Glue on additional items, including a class list, a brochure from a favorite field trip spot, a program from a school or another elementary school memory item. After the glue dries, have each student sign the collage with a permanent marker.
Tags: elementary school, fifth grade, school years, each student, grade school, grade school years