Welcome to Comprehension Connection! This is week four of a weekly linky party focused on topics in education that teachers and parents find challenging. The focus of this week's linky is on how we can make the most of our instructional time. To link up, please write up your blog post sharing your ideas related to the topic. You may include products related to the topic, but the purpose of the linky is about sharing and exchanging of tips and tricks that may help others. As part of this linky, comments are encouraged. Please make an effort to read the other posts that are shared and comment. Dialogue about the topic helps everyone. Please comment on the two before you in the list. If you are the first to link up, please return to comment on those toward the end. Now...on with my post!
A Well Planned Schedule
Room Configuration
Materials Organization
Just like room configuration, having materials prepared and organized makes the flow from lesson to lesson or group to group happen efficiently. In past years when I worked with six grade levels, I used color coding as a method to keep things organized. I used tubs labeled by grade level and assigned each grade level a different color of two pocket folders. I put all consumable materials I needed for my lessons in the tubs, and students kept work in progress in their folders. We use composition books a lot, so when materials are collected, I just tuck the composition books into the folders along with the child's tradebook (if we're still working with it). This year, I just have two grade levels for two hours each, so there are fewer transitions. Still, the color coding system works very well.
Behavior Management
One of the biggest challenges for teachers is classroom management, and with students who struggle with learning, behavior challenges often come from frustration. Even as a seasoned veteran teacher, there are times when I find I really need to think quickly how to minimize the time lost by handling behavioral challenges. One thing that I've kept in my mind is the saying to "Pick your Battles!" I tell my students often that we have a job to do and need to get it done. I try to motivate and encourage them, and I try to minimize consequences. When kids are motivated by the activities happening in the classroom, feel successful with their work, and see the growth they are making, they understand the purpose and are more willing to remain positive. When issues do crop up, I try very hard to keep the others engaged and privately deal with the issue. Sometimes, I will table an issue until a time when I can address it if I know it will take more time to process. Ultimately though, we all have times when we must act, and when it's needed, we definitely need to respond with confidence and with minimal explanations.
Now, it's your turn...
What works for you? Please take a moment to share your thoughts in the comments or link up. Let's face it. Even the best teachers enjoy improving their skills and learn from others.
Next week, our topic will be "Motivational Strategies that Light Up our Learners"
Thanks for visiting, and next week, I'll try to have pictures. We give our state reading test in the morning, so I've been focused on final preparations. I hope you understand.

Behavior Management
Now, it's your turn...
What works for you? Please take a moment to share your thoughts in the comments or link up. Let's face it. Even the best teachers enjoy improving their skills and learn from others.
Next week, our topic will be "Motivational Strategies that Light Up our Learners"
Thanks for visiting, and next week, I'll try to have pictures. We give our state reading test in the morning, so I've been focused on final preparations. I hope you understand.
These are all great ideas Carla! Gosh, being organized with materials is so crucial. I have learned that with working with Kindergarten students this year. I am sure to have everything ready and available before I pick them up or the lesson just has to many interruptions and inappropriate behaviors. Everything just clicks along smoothly when we are prepared.
ReplyDeleteSebrina
Burke's Special Kids
My buddy, Nancy, gave me the color coding idea when I first started in Title 1, and it's been the best way to make things go smoothly. I just make sure everything is in the correct tub, pull them off the shelf and teach.
DeleteIt is so true that interesting activities and setting students up for success will help prevent discipline problems. When teachers aren't allowed the freedom to use creative, engaging strategies, or to differentiate lessons, negative behaviors rise.
ReplyDelete