One of the things in my classroom that I am most proud of is the sense of community the class has. I feel like in just a short time, I have built a close rapport with the kids. The environment is comfortable, which in turn makes it easier for the kids to ask questions and learn. Another thing I am proud of is that due to good planning, I have been able to stick to a schedule of lesson plans. I feel like everyone benefits when I am more prepared.
One thing I'd like to do more of, especially in my math class, is to be able to tie in the use of more manipulatives and hands on activities during the lessons. This is something that the students (and I) coming from our Montessori 4th, 5th & 6th grade classrooms are used to and enjoy. With about an hour for each math lesson a day, I feel like this is a do-able goal. I am going to work on shortening the teacher-directed lesson to leave time for more hands-on activities. Another thing I'd like to work on is finding a better procedure for correcting homework. Right now, the students are correcting their own homework assignment as I read the answers out-loud. I feel like this takes too much time away from the class period. I am currently asking around and gathering ideas from other teachers on my campus.
Monica, creating a sense of community is so important for the smooth running of your class. Planning and being prepared is also extremely important. Using manipulatives would be a great goal for your math time. If you think about homework - you obviously want to know if they are doing it right, but what else is your goal? Are you giving it a grade? Maybe spot checking and checking for completion might be the way to go.
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