The last few weeks of school in Upper Elementary can feel like a whirlwind—testing, cleaning, packing, and don’t forget report cards. But these last days of school are also the perfect time to pause, reflect, and celebrate all the hard work that was done this year. One way to do that is to incorporate some meaningful end of the year writing activities into these busy days.
End of the Year Writing Activities - Really?
Let’s be real: By May or June, your students (and let’s face it—you, too) are ready to power down. Traditional lessons may fall flat, and even the most structured plans can feel like a slog.
So how do we get our students to continue to practice skills, especially writing, this late in the school year?
They need a purpose behind the writing—something that feels personal and important. This is where I have found legacy writing to be so easy and fun!
What is Legacy Writing?
Legacy writing gives students a chance to look back on the year, celebrate their growth, and share their voice. And when you frame it as “leaving something behind” for next year’s class, their teacher, or even just for themselves, they rise to the challenge.
Think about it: These are the same kids who couldn’t remember how to capitalize “I” back in August—and now they’re full-blown authors with opinions, advice, and confidence. The end of the school year is the perfect time to let them become the expert.
Here are some end of the year writing activities that are perfect for upper elementary students to celebrate the end of the school year.
Letters to Next Year’s Students
This one is a classic for a reason. Invite your current class to write honest, funny, and heartfelt letters to next year’s students. They can share advice (“Always do your homework—it’s way easier than a missing assignment form!”), favorite memories, classroom tips, and what they loved most.
You’ll be amazed at what they write—and your incoming students will love reading them in the fall. It creates an instant connection and puts your new class at ease.
You can combine all the pages into a class book for your library or make it a digital presentation on Google Slides.
“Dear Teacher” Letters
Ask students to write a letter directly to you. They can reflect on what they learned, what they appreciated, or what they think you should know about teaching your grade level. Some will be sweet, some will be silly—and some will make you cry (in the best way).
This is not only a meaningful way to gather feedback, but also a powerful reminder of why you do what you do.
My Favorite Memory
Have students write about their favorite moment from the school year in detail. Was it a field trip? A math breakthrough? A funny classroom moment? This is a great way to sneak in a little narrative writing practice while helping them celebrate their year.
Another wonderful class book idea for your library.
Advice Columns for Middle School Prep
Upper Elementary students love feeling like experts. Have them write short “advice columns” to your next class about what it takes to succeed in your grade. These can be serious or silly. Have your students buddy up with a class a grade level below and let them read their advice to the next group of students.
Make It Easy with a Done-for-You Option
Want a resource that wraps all this up into one neat, low-prep, keepsake-worthy activity?
I created this Letters to Next Year’s Students & Memory Page resource specifically for third, fourth, and fifth grade teachers who want a simple, meaningful way to end the year. It includes everything you need to help students reflect on their year, write a thoughtful letter, and leave a legacy in your classroom.
👀Looking for tips to help you end the school year on a positive note? Check out this blog post!
