It is critical to pour a strong foundation on the first days of school. Connecting with the students, establishing classroom policies and procedures, and setting the pace and expectations of the class early create a solid base to build a successful school year.
Some tips for the first days of school are be prepared to hand out all necessary materials, start class on time, let students voice their questions and concerns about the course, and walk the talk – make sure established rules and procedures are followed throughout the year.
Icebreakers are great activities for the first days of school. Icebreakers lessen the tension between the teacher and students and the students and one another.
Classroom Management - http://www.4faculty.org/includes/108r2.jsp
University of Oklahoma Instructional Development Program -http://honolulu.hawaii.edu/intranet/committees/FacDevCom/guidebk/teachtip/firstday.htm
I agree that it's important to set the pace and expectations of the class during the first days of school so that students know what is expected of them. Immediately, they will know what there overal goal is and how to achieve it.
ReplyDeleteLetting the students voice their questions and concerns about the course is important to remember. I didn't think about that but it will not only clarify information for students but it also allows them to feel more comfortable in the classroom knowing you are open to all questions and concerns throughout.
And of course icebreakers! This is something that is an ongoing process throughout the course but I agree, very important during the first days of school.