Abstract
The purpose of this project was to create a team building curriculum guide for the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) program. This project provides teachers with a series of 72 sequential team building activities for grades 7 through 12. Clear instructions, strategies, tips, and tools help AVID teachers become better team building facilitators. Innovative activities provide AVID students with significant experiences that promote trust among their peers, which results in a strong sense of community that will provide support throughout middle and high school. Sources of Data Information gathered from the review of academic, peer-reviewed literature, data gleaned from seventy-five informal surveys voluntarily and anonymously completed by AVID 10 though AVID 12 students. Finally, observations recorded from practical application in AVID classes informed choices made for the final curriculum guide. Conclusions Reached The findings from the final project revealed that team building activities in the AVID classroom enhance the sense of trust and belonging in the community. Social, emotional, and cognitive advancement takes place. Teachers must take care to plan and debrief activities in order to construct meaning from the experiences.