Recess for Middle Schoolers

First and last name:

1.What part of the brain helps kids pay attention and learn new things?

• The prefrontal cortex
• The hippocampus
• The amygdala
• The cerebellum

2.What does recess help kids' brains make?

• Serotonin
• Dopamine
• Endorphins
• Adrenaline

3.What happens to kids' brains when they are stressed?

• They use a different part of the brain that makes it hard to learn.
• They use the prefrontal cortex to help them focus.
• They make dopamine which makes them happy.
• They get more exercise and become healthier.

4.Why is recess important for kids' brains? (use complete sentences! At least 3 sentences)

5. How does dopamine help kids learn? (use complete sentences! At least 1 sentence)

6.Think about a time when you were feeling stressed or frustrated. How did you feel? What did you do to help yourself calm down? How does this relate to what you learned about recess in the text? (use complete sentences! At least 3 sentences)

7. The text says that recess helps kids' brains make dopamine, which makes them feel happy and excited about learning. What are some things that make you feel happy and excited about learning? How do these things help you learn better? (use complete sentences! At least 2 sentences)

8.The text explains how recess helps kids focus better in class. Do you think recess helps you focus better? Why or why not? Give examples from your own experience. (use complete sentences! At least 3 sentences)