Lesson & Activities - Exploring March Break?
- 7 hours ago
- 11 min read
✦ This lesson includes these sections:
☞ PART 1 - What Is March Break?
☞ PART 2 - How The Date Of March Break Is Determined
☞ PART 3 - The Origins Of March Break
☞ PART 4 - March Break Around The World
☞ PART 5 - Different Names For March Break
☞ PART 6 - March Break & The Start Of The Spring Season
☞ LISTENING - Matching Activity Tips For Handling Bullying
☞ PART 7 - Top 20 Fun March Break Activities
☞ ACTIVITY - Fun March Break Activities Matching Exercise
☞ POLL - March Break Activities That You Plan To Do
☞ PART 8 - March Break Camps
☞ PART 9 - Why Do Parents Sign Their Kids Up For Camp?
☞ PART 10 - Top 10 March Break Camps
☞ PART 11 - Concluding Thoughts
☞ QUIZ - Test Your Knowledge
✦ Click on each section from above to see it ↑
✦ Click on each title box from below to get back here ↓
Exploring March Break
Speaking Activity
Conversation Questions
Instructions:
Listen to and read the conversation questions.
Practice your speaking by answering each question out loud.
See some possible answers to the conversation questions by clicking the side arrows next to each question.
Conversation Questions
1. Have you ever heard of March Break before today? What do you think it might be?
No, I haven’t heard of it before. I think it might be a short holiday in March.
2. Why do you think students might need a break in the middle of the school year?
I think they need a break to rest, relax, and get new energy for the rest of the year.
3. What kinds of weather do you think we are going to have during March Break?
I feel upset and uncomfortable. I want to help, but sometimes it is hard to know what to do.
4. What kinds of activities do you think children might do during March Break?
I think and hope that the weather during March Break is going to be warm and sunny.
5. What are your plans for March Break?
I plan to spend March Break visiting family or relaxing at home because I need some quiet time.
Writing Activity
Pre-Reading Vocabulary
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Copy the words from below.
Look up the definitions of the words online.
Learn the definitions of each word.
Important Words - Exploring March Break
break
vacation
province
schedule
origin
country
region
season
tradition
camp
reason
exercise
screen
technology
What Is March Break?
Instructions:
Read the following text.
Listen to the audio files.
Complete the activities within the lesson.
Note: Reading out loud when learning a new language is important because it helps you practice your pronunciation. When you speak the words, you can hear how they sound, and this will improve your speaking skills.
What Is March Break?
March Break is a one‑week holiday for students that happens every year in March. Schools across Canada give students this short break so they can rest, spend time with family, or enjoy activities before the final months of the school year. Although the date changes each year slightly, March Break usually happens in the second or third week of March.
How The Date For March Break Is Determined
In Canada, each province sets its own March Break schedule. School boards look at the school calendar and choose a week in March that fits well between holidays and exam periods. In many provinces, the date stays close to the same time every year, so families can plan vacations and activities in advance.
The Origins Of March Break
March Break has interesting origins. It began in the early 20th century when schools noticed that students needed rest during the long winter term. Later, universities in the United States added a spring holiday to support student well‑being and athletic training trips. Over time, this idea spread to Canada and other countries, and it became the annual March Break we know today.
March Break Around The World
Many countries have a version of March or Spring Break. Canada, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and some European countries give students a break during early spring. In warmer places like Mexico or Spain, Spring Break often includes outdoor festivals and local traditions.
Different Names for March Break
March Break is known by several names depending on where you live. In many places in Canada, people call it March Break, but some regions use Spring Break or Winter Break. Also, some Canadian provinces call it Reading Week for college and university students. In the United States, the term Spring Break is more common. Even though these names are different, they all describe the same idea: a short break from school for students and teachers to relax and recharge.
March Break & the Start of The Spring Season
March Break is exciting because it almost always lines up with the beginning of the spring season. Days are longer, the sun feels warmer, and snow starts to melt in many parts of Canada. This makes it a perfect time for families to enjoy outdoor activities again after a long winter.
What Is March Break?
Instructions:
Press the play buttons below.
Listen to the audio file.
Use the reading from above to follow along with the audio file.
What Is March Break?
Top 20 Fun March Break Activities
Going skiing or snowboarding
Description: This activity involves travelling to a ski hill to enjoy winter sports on the snow. People slide down the hill using skis or a snowboard.
Real‑life example: You spend a day at Blue Mountain, skiing with friends and enjoying the fresh winter air.
Visiting family and friends
Description: Many people use March Break to reconnect with loved ones, especially if they live far away.
Real‑life example: You drive to another city to have dinner with your cousins and catch up on life.
Taking a trip to a warm destination
Description: Some families travel to places with sunny weather to escape the cold.
Real‑life example: You fly to Mexico for a week and relax on the beach under the sun.
Exploring museums
Description: People visit museums to learn about history, art, or science through interactive displays.
Real‑life example: You spend the afternoon at the Ontario Science Centre and try hands‑on experiments.
Going to the movies
Description: Watching a movie in a cinema is a relaxing way to spend time during March Break.
Real‑life example: You meet a friend to watch a new action film at the theatre and share popcorn.
Relaxing at home
Description: Some people enjoy a quiet break by resting, sleeping in, or taking time for themselves.
Real‑life example: You stay home with a warm blanket, enjoy tea, and take a long afternoon nap.
Reading new books
Description: March Break is a good time to start a new story or learn something new through reading.
Real‑life example: You borrow a mystery novel from the library and read a few chapters each night.
Trying new hobbies
Description: People often use the extra free time to explore a skill or activity they have never tried before.
Real‑life example: You attend a beginner’s pottery class and learn how to shape clay on a wheel.
Playing sports
Description: March Break is a chance to stay active by playing team or individual sports.
Real‑life example: You join a local pick‑up basketball game at your community centre.
Going ice skating
Description: Many indoor and outdoor rinks are open in March, making skating a popular activity.
Real‑life example: You skate at your city’s outdoor rink and practise keeping your balance.
Visiting indoor playgrounds
Description: Indoor playgrounds offer slides, climbing structures, and soft play areas, especially for children.
Real‑life example: You take your child to an indoor play centre where they climb, jump, and explore safely.
Baking treats at home
Description: People enjoy making cookies, cakes, or other baked snacks during March Break.
Real‑life example: You bake chocolate chip cookies with your niece and enjoy them warm from the oven.
Visiting a butterfly conservatory
Description: People can observe butterflies up close, learn about their life cycle, and enjoy a peaceful, spring‑like environment.
Real‑life example: You walk through a butterfly conservatory and take photos of colourful butterflies landing on flowers while enjoying the warm, tropical air.
Enjoying nature walks
Description: Walking outside helps people relax and enjoy the early signs of spring.
Real‑life example: You take a walk in a nearby park and notice the snow melting and birds returning.
Visiting libraries for special events
Description: Libraries often run free March Break programs such as story time, craft days, or workshops.
Real‑life example: You attend a library event where a guest speaker teaches simple drawing techniques.
Going shopping
Description: Some people take advantage of sales or enjoy browsing stores during their time off.
Real‑life example: You visit a mall to buy spring clothing and enjoy a coffee while you shop.
Doing arts and crafts
Description: Arts and crafts allow people to be creative using paper, paint, glue, and other materials.
Real‑life example: You make a handmade card using stamps and markers for a friend’s birthday.
Visiting indoor arcade halls
Description: Arcade halls offer games, rides,, and entertainment for all ages.
Real‑life example: You spend a fun day at an indoor arcade hall playing air hockey and winning small prizes.
Spending time outdoors
Description: As temperatures rise, people enjoy being outside more.
Real‑life example: You sit on a park bench in the sunshine and enjoy the first warm breeze of spring.
Joining March Break camps
Description: Camps offer organized activities for kids while parents work. They include sports, crafts, or science programs.
Real‑life example: Your child joins a March Break camp where they spend the week playing games, doing crafts, and making new friends.
Reading & Writing Practice
March Break Activities Matching Exercise
Instructions:
Get a pencil and paper.
Make a list from 1 to 14.
Read the 14 situations.
Use the chart - Fun March Break Activities, and decide which March Break situation matches which activity.
Practice your writing by writing the name of the activity next to each number on your paper.
Check your answers by clicking on the side arrows next to each situation.
March Break Activities Matching Exercise
Situation #1: “I’m planning to walk through the nearby park and enjoy the first signs of spring.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Spending time outdoors
Situation #2: “I’m taking my niece to a place where she can climb, slide, and play indoors.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Visiting indoor playgrounds
Situation #3: “I want to stay home, rest, and enjoy some quiet time this March Break.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Relaxing at home
Situation #4: “I borrowed two novels from the library, and I want to finish them before the week is over.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Reading new books
Situation #5: “My child will spend the week doing games, crafts, and outdoor activities with camp leaders.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Joining March Break camps
Situation #6: “I’m travelling south to enjoy warm weather and sandy beaches.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Taking a trip to a warm destination
Situation #7: “I’m visiting my parents and cousins who live a couple of hours away.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Visiting family and friends
Situation #8: “There is a new movie I want to watch, so I’m going to the theatre with a friend.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going to the movies
Situation #9: “I’m spending a day at a beautiful place that has many birds and butterflies that are going to be flying around us.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Visiting A Butterfly Conservative
Situation #10: “I’m going to an outdoor rink to skate while the ice is still good.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going ice skating
Situation #11: “I’m meeting friends at the community centre to play volleyball and basketball.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Playing sports
Situation #12: “I’m going to try painting for the first time with a beginner art set.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Trying new hobbies
Situation #13: “I’m going to the mall to look for new spring clothes.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Going shopping
Situation #14: “I want to bake muffins and cookies this week because I enjoy cooking at home.” Which March Break activity does this situation describe?
ANSWER: Baking treats at home
Take Our Poll
March Break Activity That You Plan To Do
Which activity do you plan to do during March Break?
0%Going Skiing Or Snowboarding
0%Visiting indoor playgrounds
0%Visiting Family Or Friends
0%Baking treats at home
March Break Camps
What Are March Break Camps for Kids?
March Break camps are special programs for children during the March Break holiday from school. These camps usually happen for one week. They give kids a fun and safe place to go while schools are closed. At camp, children join different activities such as sports, crafts, games, science projects, or outdoor play. Many camps also have themes, like art, animals, cooking, or technology.
Why Do Parents Sign Their Kids Up For Camps?
Parents choose March Break camps for three main reasons:
Reason #1
Parents Have to Work
Many adults still go to work during March Break. Camps give children a safe and supervised place to spend the day.
Reason #2
To Keep Kids Active
Camps help children move, learn, and stay busy instead of sitting at home. Kids get exercise and stay healthy.
Reason #3
To Reduce Screen Time
Many parents want their children to take a break from phones, tablets, and video games. Camps give kids fun things to do without electronics.
Top 10 March Break Camps That Kids Can Join
1. Sports Camp
Kids play soccer, basketball, volleyball, hockey, swimming, or other sports. These camps help kids stay healthy and active.
2. Art Camp
Children learn painting, drawing, crafts, and other creative activities. It is great for kids who enjoy making things.
3. Science Camp
Kids do simple experiments and learn about nature, space, or technology. These camps are fun for curious minds.
4. Outdoor Adventure Camp
Children enjoy hiking, outdoor games, and nature activities. These camps help kids get fresh air after winter.
5. Music Camp
Kids learn songs, instruments, and rhythm. Music camps help build confidence and creativity.
6. Dance Camp
Children practise dance styles like hip-hop, jazz, or ballet. It helps them move, exercise, and express themselves.
7. Coding or Robotics Camp
Kids learn beginner coding, build robots, or play learning games. It is a fun way to introduce technology.
8. Cooking or Baking Camp
Children learn easy recipes and kitchen safety. They enjoy eating what they make.
9. Drama or Theatre Camp
Children act in plays, practise speaking, and build confidence on stage.
10. Animal or Nature Camp
Kids learn about animals, insects, plants, and the environment. Some camps even have small animals to meet.
Concluding Thoughts
Overall, March Break is a special time of year that gives students and families a chance to rest, explore, and enjoy the start of spring. Whether people call it March Break or Spring Break, the purpose is the same: to relax, recharge, and take a refreshing pause before the busy months ahead. With fun activities, interesting traditions, and a long history, March Break remains one of the most enjoyable weeks of the school year.
Test Your Knowledge By Taking Our Quiz
Instructions:
Read the 10 true and false questions below.
Answer each question.
Click the Submit button when you are done.
Click the View Score button to check your results.
Click below for a reading without the accompanying activities:
Written by: Nicole WT
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