I really am excited to be a part of this book study...and with my summer school wrapping up,
it is time to do my "homework" from last week, just in time to do this week's!
What little I know about D5 has sparked my interest in learning more....it seems so similar to the RESPONSIVE CLASSROOM design for classroom behaviors that I am excited to learn more!
Thank you to all the great people who are leading this group!
So, here goes....
1. How do I teach new behaviors?
I use responsive classroom techniques, whole group, proactive, empowering language, focus on positive,
2. How do I teach expectations?
same as for behaviors
I limit "rules" to 3
which the kids generate although I direct toward the usual...
be kind...be safe....be ready
all behaviors and expectations can fit into one of those
we talk about what each rule looks like
I refer to The First 6 Weeks book often
and throughout the year we regularly review
especially after Christmas break
The word SELF CONTROL is used copiously
3. How do I monitor student behavior? whole group? small groups? individual?
The longer I teach, and the more kids I am mama to (6 at last count),
the easier it gets to have those
"eyes on the back of my head" skills.
Whole group situations are probably the hardest for most teachers,
as it seems we always have those kiddos who are good at misbehaving while
no one is looking.
Small group is easier to keep tabs on.
I do expect kids to self monitor after the first couple of months of school.
Some are good at it, some need continual practice
4. What do I do when a student is not exhibiting desired behavior?
Often redirection and/or just letting them know you "see" their behavior
(the LOOK) is enough
If the kiddo continues to make poor choices, I will conference using empowering language of
RESPONSIVE CLASSROOM
"I noticed you...." or "did you notice when you......then......?
I do not use stickers or reward systems
Responsive classroom helps kids focus on intrinsic rewards
being good for goodness sake!
5. Whose classroom is it?
Ours.... although I am thinking the answer for D5 is theirs...I am not there yet!
I shutter to think of myself only using 1/18 of the space for my teacher stuff.
I am hoping to see the light on this one but I am skeptical
What about grading samples? assessment packets? snacks? fun things to look at to keep my interest as I listen to them count to 100. again. and again? ha!
6. Locus of control?
The STUDENTS are in control but my job is to teach them and expect from them
SELF CONTROL
in all areas of our day.
Someone mentioned in one their blogs about how the K classes seem to have the best behavior in the hallways...I agree! I am wondering how to help the older kids continue to work on
SELF CONTROL when many upper grades assume they have it, which they don't?
7. Where are supplies stored?
This is one I struggle with as I also teach
(rather taught...our district is going to 5 full days of k next year! Woot Woot!)
an enrichment class so I have STUFF everywhere.
Just look at some of my past blogs...stuff. everywhere.
Don't you believe the "becoming a clutterfree classroom" button you see on my page.
But who does everyone go to when they need something?
Like an ice cream scoop?
Or a jester's hat (just today!)
I do make an attempt to have items where the kids can access them as I train them in on proper procedure and care of items. My books (shoot, notice I said MY) are an area I have to rethink. Currently I have them organized by the themes we use as we flow through our year. I have TONS of books....seriously I have a problem collecting kiddy lit...I need a 3 step program, I think!
I can see I have some work ahead of me....bring it on!
