Participation Philosophy
Teachers who work with students in middle level grades are aware of the pre-adolescent need for positive reinforcement and success, as well as the inherent willingness of students at this age to try new things! It’s a perfect time to experiment with activity participation.
Learning Objectives
- Promote literacy: read, write, speak, and listen
- Build confidence and social skills through peer support
- Foster information literacy and research
- Develop critical thinking skills and logical reasoning
- Increase social awareness and responsibility
- Provide outlet for creative expression for both gifted and at-risk youth
- Conquer stage fright before fear of public speaking can develop
- Explore topics of personal relevance
- Extend learning in cross-curricular topics
- Festivals promote individual achievement through rating and constructive criticism
- Non-competitive; students are not compared to each other; they are evaluated on a rubric
Membership
Annual dues are $150 ($100 if paid by Oct. 1).
Activities
Theatre: Schools can produce a one-act play or individuals, pairs, or small groups can participate in the WISDAA Thespys contests.
Debate: Students can participate as delegates in Congressional Debate.
Speech: An entirely Middle Level-exclusive speech series includes robust opportunities.
Film: Schools can submit any number of student-driven films (with instructor guidance).