Here's a mindfulness activity for 9th graders who are learning English as a foreign language. This activity is focused on the topic of a graduation ceremony of 9th graders' 9th theme named "Invitations and Celebrations", but you can use it with your other students, especially, 12th graders, as well.
Instructions:
Focus on your breath. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. Pay attention to the rise and fall of your chest as you breathe.
Now, imagine yourself at your university graduation ceremony. Picture yourself dressed in your cap and gown, walking across the stage to get your diploma. Imagine the feeling of pride and accomplishment as you hold your diploma in your hands.
Close your eyes now. Focus on the sounds around you. Hear the applause of the audience and the sound of your name being called. Listen to the music playing in the background.
Pay attention to your thoughts and feelings as you imagine this scene. Notice any feelings of happiness, excitement, or nervousness that may arise. Acknowledge these feelings and allow them to be present without judgment.
Now, slowly bring your attention back to your breath. Inhale deeply and exhale slowly. When you are ready, open your eyes.
Take a moment to reflect on the visualization exercise.
The following questions can be asked and a discussion can be started:
How did it make you feel?
What was the name of your department? Medicine? Engineering? ...
Which university did you graduate from?
Did any thoughts or emotions arise?
By practicing this mindfulness activity, you can help students become more motivated toward the theme and the topics in the coursebook.
You can also play this video for applause and crowd-cheering sound effects:
I used and adapted this activity during my lesson with 8th graders to talk about their graduation. As their graduation is approaching, it was very appropriate for them.