Hey there, teacher friend!
Can you believe we’re gearing up for the new year already? New Year’s is the perfect time to reset, refresh, and refocus, both for us and our students. Every year, I like to choose one word to guide my intentions for the year ahead. This year, my word for 2025 is system. It’s all about creating systems that support my life: work, family, faith, friends, and (most importantly) myself.
Now imagine: what if your students could do the same? That’s where this simple one-pager comes in! It’s an easy, reflective activity that gets kids thinking about what they want their year to look like. And the best part? It’s free in my TpT shop, Teaching with Glitter and Gold (grab it through the link in my bio).
How It Works
Here’s how you can bring this into your classroom:
- Start with the Definition
In the top-left corner, students write the definition of their word. This step is important because knowing what their word means sets the foundation for everything else. It’s all about clarity! - Find Their Why
Next, students explain why they chose their word. This is my favorite part. When kids understand their “why,” it gives their word real meaning. And when they start to drift off-track (because, let’s be honest, we all do), they can come back to their “why” and refocus.
(You know how we love saying, “Remember your why” in teaching? Well, this is a great way to pass that wisdom onto them!) - Picture It
In the third section, students get creative! They visualize what their word looks like in action. Whether it’s through drawing, writing, or even making a mini vision board, this step helps them see their word come to life. - Set Goals
Finally, in the last quadrant, students map out their goals for the year. What do they want to achieve? How will their word help them get there?
For me, with the word system, my goals are all about streamlining my routines, whether it’s in my classroom, my business, or my personal life.
Why It Works
This one-pager isn’t just a cute activity (although it totally is); it’s a meaningful way to help kids take ownership of their year. It encourages reflection, creativity, and goal-setting—all skills we want to nurture in our students. Plus, it’s a great way to start the new year with purpose and positivity in your classroom.
So, teacher friend, grab your copy of this freebie, and let’s help our students start 2025 strong. Here’s to a year full of growth, success, and all the good vibes!
You’ve got this. 💛Happy New Year,
Ashley
