Trees and Graffiti

The Middle School Challenge “Middle school is a netherworld between

elementary school and high school, and teachers can be the key.” The New York Times (March 2007)

At-Risk Youth

“Tree” as metaphor Soil Roots Trunk Branches Foliage, fruit, flowers

Group Share Share drawings with table Volunteers to share with large group Post trees

Graffiti Overview Table members ponder Graffiti Prompt Using colored marker, record

responses/ideas/reactions When time is called, rotate prompts in clockwise

direction Read and respond to new prompt—repeat

rotation until original prompt returns Read, critique, discuss all responses—choose 1

to share with large group

Closure and Evaluation