Barnett 6th Grade Fear Factor to Peer Pressure

Have you ever wondered if you have what it takes to face your fears? Well, the 6 th graders at Barnett Elementary do! Recently, students volunteered to be contestants in eight, pulse-racing, hair raising activities. They had worms dropped on their faces, had to catch mustard covered marshmallows in their mouths, and eat pickled pigs feet, just to name a few. Under the supervision of stunt coordinators (their teachers), Mrs. Spencer, Mrs. Peterson, and Mrs. Laudato, students were confronted with a series of challenging tasks. If the students completed the tasks they earned points, if fear stopped them from completing the task, they lost points. The class that earned the most points took home the prize! Mrs. Peterson’s class won for the 2nd straight year. Although, everyone gave a valiant effort!The purpose of this activity is to illustrate to our sixth graders that although peer pressure begins way before junior high, it seems to be when it initially becomes more of an issue in children’s lives. Some of our children are particularly strong and have no problem speaking their mind. Still, parents and teachers can reinforce certain guidelines to help them steer clear of undesirable situations. Students are surprised to realize they probably wouldn’t have allowed someone to drop worms on their face, and agreed that they allowed it because of pressure from friends and adults. Peer pressure can come in any form, and from anyone.
For many students who are of middle school age, it can be helpful for them to contemplate about negative scenarios that could play out when peer pressure wins. Overall, they learned about peer pressure and strategies to avoid being a part of it. It was a great activity and one that the Barnett sixth graders loved!