Although probably not fully appropriate for the students, check out what this writer does with index cards. I love how she uses simple graphs and charts combined with common language and non-math situations.
I love several elements about this one. One is how the students had choice in choosing the topic based on their interest, and two how they chose the outcome they wanted. This looks like a good fit for the Self-Awareness unit that the 8th grade did in the beginning of the year.