Unbelievable! It is time to go back to school already. I always get excited to go back and begin a brand new year with new students, new opportunities, challenges and this next year new responsibilities as I begin internships. As I was thinking about starting a new year I began brainstorming all the activities I want to use. I thought I would share a few:
*I always like to have a little 'something' on my students desk the first time they come into the room. This changes from year to year depending on my inspiration and mood. I attach a little note along with a treat. I have used popcorn or blow pop suckers with a note saying "I am so excited to be your teacher I might just POP!" Smiley face fruities (from Wal-Mart) with a note "I'm all smiles because you are in our class!" Smarties - "Welcome to a class full of smarties!" Rice Krispie treats - "It's a treat to be your teacher! Welcome!" Notepad with pencil - "Take note-you are in the greatest 3rd grade class ever!"
*The first day of school I like to give the students a chance to decide what atmosphere they would like in their class. I often have the students sit on their desk (this is great fun for them) and I toss a small ball to someone. I then tell them to play the game. That is all I say. After a few awkward moments they begin passing the ball around. I usually act like I am busy at my desk or something. When they all begin asking what they are playing or how they should do it, we begin talking about how a game is much more fun when we know the rules and how to play. Our classroom is the same way. We can have a lot of fun and a great experience if we all understand one another. Then the students come up with their own expectations (of course they are guided to determine the 'class rules' that are appropriate).
*The first few days the students don't really know each other. Having an activity each day where they can get to know one another better helps everyone feel more comfortable and at ease. Classmate Bingo is fun to play. Also, having each student bring 5-10 things in a lunch sack (I provide the sack) that describe them. The items have to fit inside the bag. I start by telling them about me. I include things like a diet coke, Hershey Kisses, Cinnamon Bears, picture of my family, a book, slice of bread-I can't eat any gluten so this helps explain why I can't eat the birthday treats they bring, and a picture of Mexican food.
Have fun beginning a new school year! I would love to hear about any of your great ideas!
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
I love the treat ideas for the first day. I think I could even use some of them for my middle school kids. I like to have the kids play games like the classroom Bingo also. This is such a fun time but it is a lot of work for the teacher. Good luck with your internship. I think you will love it.
ReplyDeleteI love the game idea. I'm considering ways I can use the same idea as a counselor. Being able to visit many classrooms has allowed me to try a lot of different things. Each classroom has its own atmosphere and it sure is enjoyable going into classrooms where there is structure and expectations. I can tell that you are one of those teachers. Thanks for the great blog.
ReplyDelete