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Hawkins
Elementary Level
Table of Contents
Cover...pg.1
Initial information............pg.2
Table of contents.pg.3
Part 1: Research and Beliefs section........pg.4
What is Classroom management?.............................................................................pg.5
Believing in your craft Statement....pg.6
Who is Mr. Hawkins?...............................................................................................pg.7-10
Part 2: Routines and Procedures....pg.11
A Routine Day..pg.12-13
Classroom Procedures Statementpg. 14
Classroom Procedures.pg.15-20
Taking steps for correcting ineffective procedures.pg.21
Part: 1
Research
And
Personal Beliefs
Here is what I believe!
Mr. Hawkins!
What is
Classroom
Management?
The book The First Days of School, written by Harry and Rosemary Wong, is an
excellent resource to gain a better understanding of what classroom management is. It is the
bridge between the struggling or successful student, and the teacher. How does the teacher
motivate his students? How does he handle behavior problems? How the teacher manages a
classroom will cause the student to think: Hey, my teacher cares about me!
And The Teacher Surely Does Care.
He is: Energetic
I was in a cabaret show a couple of years ago where I had to dance with a very
impressive dancer. I am not the most agile of men, so my instructor walked up to me, breathed
in, and said: Mr. Hawkins, you cannot dance, but you have energy, well done! Even though
this was a very humorous occurrence at the time, as a prospective teacher, it means the world to
me now. A teachers energy makes the difference between a child who is dreaming about going
home, and a child who is envisioning himself running through the forest during a read aloud of
the book The Bridge to Terabithia. I believe that if I am well enough to stand up in front of a
classroom, then I am well enough to be full of energy in front of a classroom as well. Also, I
want my students to recognize me as an energetic instructor. As stated in the book The First
Days of School: You do not get a second chance to make a first impression (Wong & Wong,
2009, pg. 50). Being energetic is a key part of my management style because it is a key
component of my personality.
He is: Honest
In education, and any facet of life for that matter, honesty is one of the stepping stones
toward gaining respect. Even though having respect in a classroom is very important, that is not
the reason I will be honest to my students. I will be honest because they deserve that from me.
Along with being truthful with my students, I must also be honest with myself as I instruct
eachchild. In the article The Key to Classroom by Robert and Jana Marzano, there is a phrase
which states: The most effective classroom managers did not trat all studens the same; The
tended to employ different strategies with different types of students (Marzano, 2003, pg.12).
There will not be one student who learns the same, and it is of great importance for the teacher to
realize this truth. In society, there are many ways that people talk to one another. In the
classroom, there is only one way to interact with a child; with honesty.
He is: Intentional
In the classroom, Intentionality could be argued as the most important part of
management. Consistently, day in and day out, forming new ideas and involving the student in
those ideas. Maintaing intentionality with a variety of different personality types is something
that I personally take pride in. I try my best to be my true self around anyone I come into contact
with, and that takes a true sense of intentionality. Also, I am very aware that there are children
who need a more intentional attention from their teacher than other students do. For example:
Teachers with effective classroom management skills are aware of high-needs students and have
a repertoir of specific techniques for meeting some of their needs (Marzano, 2003, pg. 11). With
all of this being said, there will be times where I do not give a certain student the attention they
may need, or deserve. I believe that being intentional is not aiming to be perfect, but it is instead
trying to do the absolute best that one can possibly do.
older. I do not let very much rattle me emotionally, and I feel as though I have a
decent grasp on how to be truly patient with children, and even adults. I feel as
though this is something that can always be improved, and I will continue to
strengthen this area of my life.
Reasonable- I am confident and comfortable when it comes to reasonably
solving a conflict between students. I am not one to jump onto either side of an
argument, and I will always do my best to effectively come up with the best and
most reasonable solutions to a problem.
Research driven- I have not always been this way throughout my educational
career, but I have recently become very focused on discovering the best ideas and
methods for what I am trying to accomplish. I am very certain that I do not know
the best ways to go about certain aspects of teaching, and I am thrilled to discover
what other professionals think. Besides, admitting that a particular area still needs
improvement just makes that area more available for growth.
Weaknesses:
Hard on self- I am my own biggest critic. I am slowly breaking away
from this mindset, but it is something that I still must work to improve.
For example, if I am critical of myself during instruction, will the students
have confidence to follow my example? The answer is probably going to
be a big NO. I do believe that having expectations for myself is good to an
extent, but being critical is not helpful in the least.
Limiting my own laughter- This is seriously a difficulty for me! I
will never say that laughter is a bad thing, and I will surely encourage it
within the classroom, but this has to do with me personally. I am a person
who loves to laugh, but sometimes my boisterous laugh can make the
classroom environment so relaxed that it takes a inconveniently long time
to regain control of the classroom. As the teacher, managing myself will
be a big step toward managing my students. It is not that I cannot control
my laughter, it is just that I must know when to allow humorous moments,
and when to pass over them for the sake of a more focused learning.
Low expectations of students- Even though I fully believe that my
students will be able to accomplish classroom tasks, I still will catch
myself having rather low expectations. I have no reason to feel this way
because I am confident that the children will succeed in the classroom
environment I am providing. Having low expectations of students does not
only have a potential of limiting a childs confidence, but even the overall
quality of the lessons that the teacher is presenting.
10
Part: 2
Routines and Procedures
Norms and Rules
The following schedule is something that will become very familiar for my students
throughout the school year. It is a tangible routine that a middle to upper level elementary student
would find manageable.
Disclaimer: schedule is based around a normal school week, and does not take
into account Holidays.
8:20-8:30
Greet students at door (Song of the week playing while students enter)
8:30-8:45
8:45-9:00
9:00-9:05
Recite Norms and Rules/ Hear from the student of the week
9:05-10:00
10:00-10:50
Mathematics Lesson
10:50-11:15
1:20- 1:50
Recess
1:50-2:40
2:40- 3:15
3:15- 3:45
3:50
13
Choice Reading
Bathroom Procedure
Morning Group Activity
Library pass
Lunch Dismissal
Clear off desks or prepare
them for after lunch
Hot lunch line up first
Lining Up
16
Arriving to class
Hang up coat
Put back pack in locker/ on
hanger
Check work cubby for any
handed back assignments
Say good morning to classmates
andBeing
teacher!Late
If you have an idea for the song
Be in classroom before the
of the day tell Mr. Hawkins
final bell
If you come in late, quietly
come and sit down, or join
the class in activity
Please bring a note
Attendance
17
18
The teacher will begin to think, and brainstorm about possible solutions to this issue
Gain the classrooms attention, and remind them of the classroom procedures that were
taught in the first week of school
Ask 2 or 3 students to demonstrate a certain classroom procedure (particularly a
procedure that the class is struggling with
19
Mr.
Hawkins!
What are
classroom
Norms and
procedure
Great
question
, Luigi!
Let me
explain
20
Classroom Norms:
Norms in the classroom can hold just as much of an importance as rules and procedures.
Many professionals refer to norms as General rules as can be viewed in the excerpt from First
Days Of School: Use rules to state your specific behavior expectations, not what work you want
performed (Wong & Wong, 2009, pg. 151). The norms within my classroom will serve as the
behavioral expectations from the onset of the year. The children will be very familiar with how
the classroom will be structured, and also with how they should behave within the walls of the
learning environment.
Mr. Hawkins Classroom Norms:
1.)
2.)
3.)
4.)
21
Maintaining Norms:
The norms will be put in a place that is easily viewable to all students. Instead of reciting
what the norms are before each day, the students will be in charge of understanding these
expectations. I will not tell the students that we are working toward a reward for following these
norms, because I do not want good behavior to flow from the potential of having a treat. If the
classroom norms are not consistently kept within the classroom, the classroom will have a whole
group discussion before instruction begins. I will ask questions such as: why are the classroom
norms important? Or: What do they do? Students will be able to answer these questions, and
reset their minds on good behavior within the classroom.
If the students are not representing the norms with any consistency and they
continue to behave poorly, measures will be taken, such as:
Taking away a reward marble
Lights off, heads down (reset)
Limited or no library passes
Classroom Rules:
Rules in the classroom are very important because they establish limitations in the
learning environment. These limitations are not to hinder a childs learning experience, but they
are instead established to enhance it. It is crucial for the teacher to make clear what is acceptable
in the classroom, and what is not. The classroom rules will be blended evenly with the way in
which I manage my classroom. With every piece of interaction and instruction that is done in the
classroom environment, classroom management is utilized. Each day the children will become
more and more familiar with how the classroom is constructed. Just as the norms become
commonplace in the classroom, rules will be second nature knowledge to every student in my
classroom.
Maintaining Rules:
Unlike classroom norms, the rules may have to be consistently instructed in the
classroom environment. This instruction is not to be done every day, but I will ensure that the
students understand what is expected of them at all times. Also, students are to be
accountable with one another to maintain the classroom rules in a successful way. If the rules
are broken in the classroom, discipline will surely be established:
If rules are broken on a semi-consistent basis, then there is a process that will be
established:
1. One-on-one meeting with student
2. Group meeting with a few students who are
either causing harm or being harmed
3. Call home to parents
4. Meeting with parents and student
Action Plan!
Name:
Date:
23
Teacher signature:
Teacher Notes:
Part: 3
Creating Classroom Climate
The First Day of School
Transitions
Sponge Activities
24
Would
you look
at all of
these
activitie
25
(ED200, 2012)
Mr. Hawkins,
What
impacts the
Classroom
26
Set learning objectives that are specific, but not restrictive (Dean,2012,
pg.5).
In any particular Classroom Climate, there are two types of interactions that are present
on a daily basis. These aspects of the learning environment are tangible items and intangible
actions. Tangible items are what can be touched, and used first hand by the students or teacher at
any given time. Intangible actions are the norms, guidelines, and rules which have been
previously established within the walls of the classroom. Relating to the classroom diagram on
the previous page, following is a list of tangible items that will be found in my classroom
environment, and also the reasoning for their specific placements.
Tangible Items
1. Kidney Table:
Having a kidney table in the classroom is a great asset. The students are able to
face one another in a semi-circle, and the teacher is able to sit right in the middle
to provide assistance and guidance. Also, this table is in view of the entire
classroom for easy access to all other areas. This table is a perfect place for a
struggling child, or group of children, to come a gain more concentrated
instruction.
2. Round Table:
Now, every teacher has a particular preference, but I love the idea of having just
one round table in the classroom. This area will be used for discussion about
books, assignments, and other areas of learning that the children are being
presented with. The children sitting at the table will be known as the Knights of
the Round Table! I believe that the students at the table will not only feel special,
but also a motivation to achieve meaningful discussion. If there is more than one
round table, attempting to serve the same purpose for the students will be nearly
(but not entirely) impossible. *Nothing is impossible in teaching.
3. Teacher Desk:
I do not personally view the teacher desk as the most important aspect of a
classroom, but it is a convenient way of keeping organized. Also, it provides a
place where the teacher may keep a watchful eye on the students during silent
reading, or group work. In my classroom, I will have a desk, but I will not be
attached to it. It is important for the teacher to stay moving, and constantly be
engaged in the students learning. A desk can serve a great purpose in the
classroom, but teaching behind it is surely not the purpose.
4. Student Tables:
27
5.
6.
7.
8.
I am a firm believer that students benefit greatly from working in groups. Just as
educators are more effective and impactful when collaborating with one another,
children are able to utilize their peers creative points of view. With this being
said, I do also understand that there is a time and place for individualized work
within the classroom as well. Just because the students will be sitting together
does not meant that personal work will be non-existent. Sitting with groups is not
only for educational purposes, but also for the social interaction between diverse
students.
Clothing Stands:
Some professionals may find this silly, but if there is an option for students to
have their coats in the classroom, I believe that is great! If the clothes racks are
not in the way of instruction (as the diagram shows) than, with effective
classroom management, they can only enhance the environment. Students will go
to the racks at least 3 times a day. These times are opportunities for the children to
interact with each other, and not just necessarily their same friends they already
talk with consistently. The teacher can even assign certain groups of students to
go to the coat racks specifically for interaction. An effective classroom manager
can utilize any tool to benefit the students.
Computers:
In a modern day classroom, computers are nearly a guarantee. Even classrooms
that do not have a computer in them, there is going to be easy access to a
computer lab. An effective teacher can utilize computers in many different ways.
There are countless resources for teachers such as programs, and educational
games that students can have at their disposal. Also, using a computer as a
privilege within the classroom is a very tangible idea. If the students know what is
expected of them, and the teacher is clear and concise about the classroom
technology rules, then students will be able to enjoy some educational games on
the computer. [The computers should be in clear view of the teacher, as can be
viewed in the diagram].
Reading carpet:
No matter what level of elementary I will be teaching in, I will make sure to
invest in a quality reading carpet. This piece of fabric will get some of the most
use out of it compared with any other resource in the classroom. Whether the
whole class is gathering for a read aloud, or the students go to certain areas of the
classroom for individual reading time, the large carpet can always be found with
happy children using it. Having the reading area in the corner of the classroom
frees up space, and also provides a feeling of safety while reading a favorite
book.
Easel:
Having an easel in the classroom for painting or drawing projects is such a
benefit! I personally may not keep it out at all times, but just having a resource
28
like this is actually very important. Blending the creative mind of a child and the
artistic supplies of a teacher can lead to a bolder kind of learning. If a student
becomes interested in one aspect of their education, what will hinder them from
being interested in other areas as well?
9. Sink:
A sink will enable the students to wash their hands after an activity without
having to leave the perimeters of the room. This one simple appliance makes it
possible for the teacher to keep the students engaged and interactive, even when
they are not sitting down in their seats. Instead of leaving the room for a few
minutes, the students will take turns washing their hands, and then return to their
assigned area for further instruction from the teacher.
10. Projector/ Smartboard:
A projector and/ or a Smartboard both play crucial roles in the classrooms of
today. These pieces of technology enable nearly every child to have the ability of
being a visual learner. With easy to see and usually entertaining prompts, students
are usually excited for the part of classroom instruction that is using a projector or
a smartboard. Also, Smartboards in particular, are not just for students to look at.
These boards are interactive resources that teachers can use to get their students
involved. Instead of sitting stationary behind a computer screen, students are
standing up and using movement to cause the Smartboard to work efficiently. It is
great to see that technology no longer requires someone to sit down, or to be
inactive. Smartboards should be near the front of the classroom, or where a
typical chalkboard would be spotted.
11. Shelves/ Cubbies/ Storage space:
Shelving and storage within a classroom should be out of the way, but also easily
accessible. These units should not cause a distraction from learning in any shape
or form. Storage areas in the classroom such as shelves, closets, and cabinets can
be extremely important for maintaining organization throughout the classroom.
Whenever a student needs anything, the teacher will have made the item very easy
to find, and readily acceptable when needed. At least one of the units should be
close to the teachers desk. The reason for this is because there will be lessons that
will utilize certain resources that will not be used consistently in the daily
classroom. Also, the teacher needs places to store important classroom items as
well.
Note: Other tangible items such as posters, classroom projects, and light decorations will
be included in my classroom. These items were not presented within the given display.
Intangible actions
29
We
helped
make
our
classroo
2. Attitude
30
Usually, it is the attitude of the student that is discussed most frequently amongst
professional educators. Not often is the teacher criticized or corrected for the
attitude that he or she displays within their own classroom. An attitude, no matter
who is sharing it, can be an uplifting force or negative weight. If the teacher is the
one with the bad attitude, then the students will quickly respond to this. I firmly
believe that the one way to lose control of a classroom is to lose control of your
temper. If the teacher is able to maintain a consistency of patience and
understanding, then the students will not only respond positively to this behavior,
but also gain a trust for their instructor. Attitude is everything!
Billy.. You
might want
to try
having a
better
31
It Takes a Team!
Together
Everyone
Achieves
More
32
First Day
Of
School!
Here
we
go!
Breathe in
Breathe out
(friends of mine) from different backgrounds to talk to the class. One will be a former
college athlete, and the other will be a business administrator. Both of these people
will talk with the class about why math is important in their daily lives. Questions are
encouraged, and I will have scripted out a few questions that are relatable to students.
This engaging interaction is to make the students aware that mathematics are an
important part of daily life.
12:55-1:30 Recess!
The students will dismiss for recess just like any activity that has them go
out into the hallway as a whole class. I will remind the students to be in a single file
line, and to use inside voices while in the hallways because students in other
classrooms are learning. Also, I will remind the students to be on good behavior
during recess, and to Not get into trouble on the first day!
1:30- 2:20 Classroom transition!
In the classroom newsletter that will have been sent home as well as email
reminders, the students will have a different teacher for Science. The students from
my classroom will go to a different classroom while Mr. Wilsons students go to
recess. I will use this time to eat lunch, as well as plan for the remainder of the day.
When Mr. Wilsons students return inside for the final 15 minutes of the class period,
they will come to my room for silent reading (their books will be stored in containers
in my classroom).
2:25-3:10 It is time for History!
History will be the last subject taught for the day. On this particular class
schedule, I will not introduce a subject quite yet. The class will instead go outside to
the flagpole. I will ask the students three questions: How many stars are on the flag?
What do the colors mean? When did the United States become an independent
Country? After a good amount of time outside with the students, we will head back
inside.
3:15-3:40 Wrap up
The students and myself will sit in a circle on the reading carpet. I will remind
them once again what I expect from them the upcoming year, and also have them start
thinking about what they want the classroom environment to be like (classroom
norms). I will open up the floor for any questions, and also what the students are
excited for throughout the year! After about a 10 minute discussion, I will ask the
students to please meet or talk to 3 classmates that they do not know very well before
we leave today.
3:45-3:50 Goodbye and Dismissal!
After making sure that each student knows where they are going to either
get picked up or get on the bus, I will thank them: Thank you so much class for
36
being a part of this experience today! I am very excited to see you all again, and to
see what tomorrow has in store. Go home, and tell your parents about school today!
This experience is not guaranteed, and there are occurrences in this first
day of school script which may be very unlikely to happen in a particular
schools classroom.
Whatever is to face me on that first day of school, I will do the best I can
with the time I am given. That much I can guarantee.
Transitions
And
Sponge Activities
Transitions can
include games,
dancing, and even
music!
37
Sponge
activities
really help
you soak
in the
Transitions
The key to a good transition is clarity and simplicity of instruction. Keep it short, simple, and
easy to do (Wong & Wong, 2009, pg.200)
Transitions are very important in any learning environment, no matter the age level or
type of students within the classroom. I will provide effective transitions that are of my own
development as well as transitions created by successful instructors.
1. Mr. Hawkins Keyboard time- After a certain lesson is completed and it is time to
move on with the day, I will have my electronic keyboard set up by my desk within
the classroom. As a transition, I will play and sing to move the students from one
activity to another. I will have them clap along with me as I play so they are able to
stay engaged in the activity.
38
2. Quote of the day- This fantastic idea was derived from Ms. Lynn Bird, a 6th grade
Language Arts teacher at Pinckneyville middle school: I start off each class by
going over a Quote of the Day. I have it written on the board and students write
this quote in their Agenda book which is used to record their daily homework. Kids
volunteer to explain what this quote means to them. This not only encourages kids to
think beyond the books but also allows me to have a part in their character
education. I have many compliments from parents because it gives them the
opportunity to have an open discussion with their kids when they see the quote
written. I get many of these quotes from various websites as well as off the daily
Classroom Flyer from the Learning Company School. This only takes about 5-7
minutes and is a great use of class time (Bird, 2011).
3. Dance to the station- For this transition, I would have previously asked the children
some of their favorite songs that they know and listen to. I will choose a few of these
recognizable tunes, and put them onto a drive or a disk. At random points throughout
the day, I will turn on the stereo and have a 2-3 minute dance party!
4. A Sound Idea- This transition comes from the mind of Mrs. Stone, an elementary
school teacher. Here is her method: Make a tape of sounds from the environment. I
have one with crickets chirping, cell phones ringing, water running, a thunderstorm,
a kitty mewing. When the tape is played the students are asked to identify what the
noise is. Keep a numbered list for your own reference so you dont forget whats on
it. The younger children especially like this activity (Stone, 2012).
5. Follow the leader- To move from one activity to another, I will call out a students
name at random. When I call on him I will say: Jimmy, you have 10 seconds to
come up with an animal that you want to be! After the 10 seconds, Jimmy will lead
his fellow classmates around the room, pretending to be an animal. The student who
guesses correctly will take Jimmys place as the leader, and come up with an animal
of their own.
6. Silent math- This particular transition is made possible by Mr. Johnson, an
elementary school teacher. Here is his procedure: A transition activity I have useful
in both 2nd & 4th grades is Silent Math. During the times your entire class is lined
39
up and waiting, have one child start by using fingers and hand signals to give math
problems. (Example: Hold up one finger (1), then make a plus sign (+), then two
fingers (1+2). Lastly, put one hand above the other facing in opposite directions for
the equal sign(=).) If a student wants to answer, he/she must raise their hand to be
called on. They must give the answer using fingers and hand signals. The kids love it
and it keeps the noise level down(Johnson, 2011).
7. Clapping- One of the more simple of transitional activities, clapping to a specific
beat or rhythm and having the class follow along. This is a great tool to use if the
class is off task, or beginning to lose focus. An effective teacher can easily regain
control of a classroom with this transition method.
8. Shorten Transition times- Here is a very interesting take on transitions created by
Cynthia Valdez, a 5th grade teacher: On a big green poster board, I drew a football
field. (0 yards in the center and 50 yards at each end) In the beginning of the school
year, I introduced the football chart. I placed a small football on the 0 year line. I
told them that we were going to play a game for six weeks. . I was one team and the
students were another. I told them that every time we had to change from one subject
to another, they were going to be timed (1 min.) If everyone was ready within the
time, they score 10 yards. If not, I score. The quarters are divided within weeks. At
the end of the six weeks, if I win, they have to write a comprehensive report. IF they
win, they get a whole day of fun educational activities and snacks. This strategy is
effective, fun, exciting, and motivating (Valdez, 2011).
9. The flickering of the light- Some teachers do not appreciate this activity, but I see it
to be very useful in particular situations. If the students are coming in from recess or
lunch, and they are wound up and energetic, it is helpful to quickly get their
attention. Turing the lights on and off will let them know that it is time to sit down,
and quiet down.
10. Lets stretch- Students need breaks throughout the day. If I am noticing that my
students are tired or not focused, I will be able to stop instruction completely, and
lead a quick stretching exercise. This activity will provide a needed break, and allow
the students to transition back into the mindset of learning.
11. Closing activity- This transition activity was brought forth by Kristie Johnson, an
elementary school teacher: As students walk in the door hand 10 scrap pieces of
paper out at random. Class knows that if they get a piece of paper they have to write
a comment about the class topic that day or a question they have. It may be a
question a neighbor had. This gives me something to do if i wrap up early or
something to start off the next class session. Check for understanding or
40
15. Snowball- This transition idea is used by Ms. Herman, a 4th grade teacher in Fowler
California: I play Snowball with my class when we have a few extra minutes. The
rule is that everyone must remain quiet unless they are pointed to. I begin by
pointing to one student and giving him an addition fact such as, 7+9. He can think
all he wants, but must not say uh, um, or anything other than the answer. When the
student replies 16, I quickly turn to another student, point, and say plus 5, and that
student must add five to the previous student's answer. If a child did not hear the
41
other answer, was not following along mentally and therefore cannot correctly reply,
or if he or she says anything other than the answer (i.e., I didn't hear what he said.),
the game starts over. The goal is to reach 100 with no mistakes and nothing spoken
other than the correct answer. We keep track of how far we get without a mistake
and always strive to at least surpass our highest score (Herman, 2011).
Sponge Activities
For those moments where there is more time left than anticipated, it is a great plan to have
proven yet brief, academic plans to continually fuel learning and growth.
The ideas within this section are obtained from Scholastic.com
*Scholastic is a longstanding trusted resource for teachers of every experience level, and
every grade level.
1. List all the words you can make using the letters in your name.
2. Alphabetize the names of the students in this class.
3. Make a word search with spelling words (theme words, holiday words...).
42
4. Write advice for the President (actor, rock star, your grandma, your parents, your principal, your
teacher...).
5. Make up math problems for a friend to solve; make sure you can figure out the answer too.
6. Write or tell your partner "I feel happy (sad, angry, frustrated, curious...) when_____."
7. List or name synonyms or antonyms for nice, said, bad, mean, pretty and other simple descriptive
words.
8. Draw a map of the furniture in your bedroom, living room, classroom,
9. List all the foods you can think of that you like or don't like to eat.
10. List or name all the words you can think of that end with the suffix -y, -tion, -dom, -ness and/or
begin with the prefix re-, pre-, in-, mis-.
11. List or name one city, country, piece of clothing, type of food, animal, etc. that begins with each
letter of the alphabet.
12. Write or tell your partner what you would do if you found a dog, $100, a ring, a treasure map.
13. Play hangman (or snowman) using names of the students in the class or spelling words.
14. Play Simon Says or I Spy.
15. Add the numbers of all the days of the month (all the numbers from 112, 1100, numbers in
your phone number, ages of family members, ages of kids in the class...).
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Strength
in
collaborati
on!
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Part: 4
Communication Plan
The quality of teacher-student relationships is the keystone for all other aspects of classroom
management (Marzano, 1996).
The quote above, stated by Robert Marzano in the article The Key to Classroom, is of
sheer importance to any teacher. Relationships in a learning environment are crucial to a childs
success, and the bond is not only between a student and a teacher.
Parents- Sending out a before the year begins newsletter to parents is an activity
that each teacher should most definitely do. This simple task is one of the many
ways of contacting family, and it brings the parent into the thought of this
teacher cares!
Students- The students are the life blood of the teaching profession. They will be
in and out of my classroom on a daily basis, and I will be a big part of their lives
for the time that they are in my classroom. Why start the relationship building on
the first day? During the summer is when the teacher should initiate the first
interaction! Writing a letter to each student, wondering how their summers are
going. Such a simple project can hold all of the meaning in the world to a child.
Faculty members- Hopefully the school system will have some kind of an
induction program where the teachers, especially new educators, are brought
together: Effective districts and schools have a training induction program for all
newly hired teachers (Wong & Wong, 2009, pg.15). If the particular district does
not have such a program, than invite co-workers out for coffee! Interaction within
the building is crucial, so why not begin cultivating relationships in the outside
world?
altercations throughout the year. Some information may not always be shared
promptly by email, so attending meetings and discussions would be beneficial.
2. Parents- Establishing contact with parents is rather easy, but maintaining that
contact can prove to be a challenge. The school year gets busy for the teacher
and the parent. It is very helpful to remember that the parents are supporting
their families, and they lead busy lives. Simple emails, notes home, and
occasional parent teacher conferences will make the parent feel comfortable
with their child in the specific classroom.
3. Faculty/ Custodians- It seems obvious that maintaining relationships with the
fellow teachers is important, but what about custodians and maintenance?
Absolutely! The custodial staff and maintenance team are the ones who make
the school look as nice as it is. Their hard work makes for more convenient
interactions throughout the school day. I will make sure to thank them, and
invite them to some classroom events.
4. Personal friends and family- Now, how does communication with personal
friends and family help in the classroom? There are a multitude of ways in
which a personal social life aides the classroom instruction! This interaction
not only lowers the stress level of the teacher, but it is also a wonderful
opportunity for the students. I have friends and family who lead all different
kinds of lives. As a student, it is very cool to listen to someone who is close to
the teacher talk about something that ties in with the classroom learning.
Why do
we
communic
I dont
know Lets
ask the
teacher!
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2. Faculty and staff- Attend or organize meetings with the faculty and staff. A whole
year was just spent together helping children succeed. These relationships are very
important, and I will not take them for granted
3. Parents- Even though the parents will be receiving emails and newsletters from a
new teacher very soon, it is important to have a final farewell to the adults in the
classroom. I will thank them for the opportunity of teaching their child, and if needed,
I will offer them some helpful advice that will benefit their students learning (summer
learning program, reading coach, etc.)
4. Students: Past and Future- Students are NOT a statistic, and it is important for the
teacher to treat them like human beings. When the school year is over, the student to
teacher relationship does not end, and it should not end. It is a dream of every teacher
to impact a child so greatly that they return one day to say a simple thank you. Of
course, this continued interaction will not be constant or consistent, but it will be
present.
*After a year that is surely going to have Ups and Downs, it is time to
take some time to relax, and then get up and start the preparation process
again! I will have a fresh slate for each group of children I teach, and I will
try my best to communicate with each life that I am fortunate enough to
touch.
In this section, there are numerous examples of flyers, participation forms, and
information letters. These documents are artifacts that I have personally derived from my Early
Childhood Policies & Standards course at Spring Arbor University. Please take the time and
look through these documents, and how they span across the school year.
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Where to Go:
From: 5:30-7:00pm
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The Parent Planners night is a resource that was derived from both the internet, and an
example Family Involvement plan that was made available to the students of ECE 416 at Spring
Arbor University. There will be projects that are of course completed within the classroom, but
also work that will be accomplished at home. It is essential for parents to be prepared at helping
hone their childs skills while their young learner is away from the classroom environment.
One of the greatest gifts a parent can offer a child is time. The usage of time is valuable,
and that is why education should not stop once the young learner is at home. Parents are often
eager to be participants in their childs learning, but that eagerness does not always lead to
effectiveness.
Organizing Planner nights is a way that teachers can offer ideas and strategies to
consistently enable the students learning outside of the classroom. Also, these nights are
important for parents to understand how the class is going to be functioning throughout the
school year. Questions can be presented for the teacher, and clarification can be achieved on
different fronts including social interaction within the classroom, and the structure of education
that the teacher provides.
One of the most crucial topics to cover during this event is the issue of parental
and academic budgeting. Sadly, when it comes to learning, there is usually not a great deal of
money that is readily available. It is important that the teacher and the parents work hand in hand
to accomplish successful academic achievements for the children, both at school and at home.
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Dear Parents,
It is that wonderful time of the year when the leaves begin to change, and the world
around us turns into something that could be relatable to a work of art. During the month of
October, your children will be partaking fully in the beautiful scenery around them, and I want
your help!
Each child will be creating a 10 page autumn picture book. 5 of the pages will be actual
pictures of their families outside enjoying the simple things in life. The pictures could include:
visiting a pumpkin patch, playing in a leaf pile, or drinking hot chocolate underneath a colorful
tree. The other 5 pages will be actual examples of what was discovered outside. The pages will
be laminated, and contain various leaves, flowers, or even clovers!
The most important part of this autumn picture book is that the children are able to
interact with the most important people in their lives, and learn something for school in the
process!
At the end of the month, there will be a book display night where the students will show
off their creations to their other classmates and parents. Also, there will be cider, donuts, and an
autumn themed movie will be playing for your enjoyment. The movie will be Its the Great
Pumpkin Charlie Brown.
Send this letter to school with your signature
, if you wish to
be a part of this section of your childs learning. Thank you for your great participation!
Lets fall into learning,
Mr. Taylor Hawkins
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Dear parents,
We just keep marching on with this school year. As we all can recognize, the month of
March is reading month. What a great opportunity for your children to display their reading
progress with peers, parents, and faculty members. During this month, the school will be hosting
contests, book fairs, and other fantastic events. In this letter, I will be letting you know what my
classroom in particular will be doing.
During this month, your children will have ample opportunities to read different books.
These books will be assigned in class, but they will also be books that the child chooses. As a
parent, you will have the great opportunity of sharing in this important time of the year! Two
events that will give you a chance to spend time reading with your student are: Pop tarts with
Pops and Milkshakes with Mom. (Look for flyers in a about a week)
March reading month is not meant to be only in affect when the child is in the classroom.
It is essential for you to provide reading times at home as well. A family that reads together, is a
family that grows together.
More information will be coming your way shortly! I am looking forward to engage in
some quality reading!
[Questions about reading month can be directed to me, or to the school office directly].
Happy reading,
Taylor Hawkins
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January Jamboree!
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Dear Parents,
What an exciting January this has been! Not only did we move into a new year, but we
are also moving onward with our learning. Whether it is reading, arts and crafts, or making
music, your children have been busy learning new things in this New Year. I would like to invite
you to come to the January Jamboree! A flyer was previously sent out with important
information, but this letter will also contain a run-down of what this night is all about.
The day is January 27th, and the starting time is 5:30pm. Please meet in my Classroom,
room #42. This will be our starting point to a great night! Here are lists of activities that are
planned, a brief description, and the locations in which they will be held:
Reading centers- Library
There will be a display of artwork that your children have completed up to this point of
the school year. (Some of these masterpieces were completed with your help!)
Materials to make either snowmen, or personalized snowflakes.
, if
Dear Parents,
Tis the season! As the snow begins to fall, and the snowmen are being built, let us enjoy
this wonderful time of the year with the people who mean the most to us. The only thing better
than spending time with family is spending time with family while making cookies!
As the flyer states, this event is taking place in the school Cafeteria at 6:30pm. There will
be multiple stations with different cookie cut outs, decorations, and flavors. You are encouraged
to be as creative as you want to be in the cookie making process.
At some point in the evening, there will be a cookie making competition. There will be
a family sign-up sheet for the contest at the entrance of the cafeteria. There will be a gift card to a
local favorite provided for the winning family. A panel of students who are not participating will
serve as the judges.
This is to serve as a relaxing time before Christmas break, and a time for you as the
parents to interact with other members of your childs classroom. I hope to see you there!
If you wish to volunteer for this event, send this letter back with your signature by
Monday, December 3rd.
Signature:
Merry Christmas!
Taylor Hawkins
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Exploring Space!
May 14th: Class fieldtrip to the city planetarium.
Leave school at 8:30am
Where: Meet at school at 12:15pm
Why: Spending quality time with your
young learner, and learning with them
about our Solar System
May 27th: After school event: So Much Space
Where: Starting in your childs
classroom at 4:00pm
Why: Being a part of engaging activities
that will further your childs learning and
understanding.
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Part: 5
References
This is where we
find out who said
what!
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References
Bird, L. (2010). Quote of the day. In Sponge and Transition Activities. Retrieved June 19, 2015,
from http://tips.atozteacherstuff.com/407/sponge-and-transition-activities/
Dean, C. B., Hubbell, E. R., Pitler, H., & Stone, B. (2012). Classroom Instruction that works
(2ndnd ed., pp. 2-188). Alexandria, VA: Mid-continent Research for Education and Learning.
Marzano, R. J., & Marzano, J. S. (2003, September). The Key to Classroom. , 6-13.
Herman, D. (2011). Begin a Snowball. In Scholastic. Retrieved June 19, 2015, from
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plan/5-minute-transitional-activities-busy-day
Johnson, K. (2011). Closing activity. In Sponge and Transition Activities. Retrieved June 19,
2015, from http://tips.atozteacherstuff.com/407/sponge-and-transition-activities
Stone, . (2009). Sponge and Transition Activities. In A Sound Idea. Retrieved June 19, 2015,
from http://tips.atozteacherstuff.com/407/sponge-and-transition-activities/
Shafina, . (2011). Tall Tales. In Scholastic. Retrieved June 19, 2015, from Herman, D. (2011).
Begin a Snowball. In Scholastic. Retrieved June 19, 2015, from
http://www.scholastic.com/teachers/lesson-plan/5-minute-transitional-activities-busy-day
Valdez, C. (2011). Shorten Transition Times. In Sponge and Transition Activities. Retrieved June
19, 2015, from http://tips.atozteacherstuff.com/407/sponge-and-transition-activities/
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Wong, H., & Wong, R. (2009). First Days Of School (pp. 1-346). Mountain View, CA: Karry K.
Wong Publications.
500 Greatest quotes of all time (2013). In Quotery. Retrieved June 19, 2015, from
http://www.quotery.com/lists/top-500-greatest-quotes-of-all-time/
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