Marshall J. Reese

Within the first month of the school year, eighth grade students participate in a field trip to Camp Winnebago which is part of the Rockford YMCA to motivate students to work copperatively and to give students experience in setting goals.  Students are seperated into eight groups (four groups each day) and work to complete tasks throughout the day includng climbing a 50 foot climbing tower.  

Establishing Focus

In preperation for the field trip, the students learn how to set SMART goals and are given an overview of what to expect on the trip.   Once arriving a Camp Winnebago, the counselors brief them on what to expect, also, before beginning the day.  

Providing Motivational Support

Throughout the day, all chaperones, incuding myself, model positive feedback and motivation methods to the students and encourage students to demonstrate the understanding by doing the same.

Fostering Teamwork

Students must work together to solve the problems they are presented with throughout the day.   Succeeding a the climbing tower, for example, can't be done without students shouting advice and holding the rope to ensure the safety of the climber.

Empowering Students

Ultimately, throughout the day, students are building confidence in themselves and their peers.

Managing Performance

Once students return to school, we gather in a circle and acknowledge the successes of each person.