Well it seems like I was to quick to say think things were getting better in first grade. I just wanted to cry today after a long and frustrating day. We took a math test today. I had several of the kids in tears because they didn't know what to do. They didn't want to use the strategies we practiced. They just sat there in there seats. Then I had behavior issues today too. I feel like I was at my breaking point today. Please give me words of encouragement. I need them. Tomorrow will be a better day I'm sure. At least I hope so!
On to better things: David's monkey has arrived. I am waiting on him at this very moment to get here so he can open the box. Lets hope that he'll leave Oliver alone now that Buzz has come. Talk with you soon!
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1 year ago
3 comments:
Hola Chicka-
Sorry to hear you had such a difficult day. Here's a hint: you wanting to cry is *exactly* how your students felt today- and no amount of skills practice was going to make them feel better. Reassurance, kind words, a five minute "break" to dance in the room to silly music (no, you won't find it in the lesson plans), a lap of skipping, a lap of galloping, a lap of twirling (carefully!) outside on the blacktop...anything to break the tension and get some "good vibes" and happy endorphins back into kids will help you (and them!) tremendously. Once the mood is lifted, tell the kids you're going to return to practicing math skills, but this time, you'll try it differently: let partners pair up- give them two minutes. Ding the timer- tell them to quickly do three jumping jacks, pat themselves on the back, and shake their partner's hand. Then partner them with someone else for two minutes- repeat, repeat, repeat. Quick, happy- it's a good "drill" WITHOUT the "overkill."
Improve their mood, and you'll see their attention and effort improve. Young children have to be appreciated FIRST, before they become brave enough (and resilient enough) to tackle the harder stuff- most upper grades tell students they have to "earn" recess, kudos, a pat on the back, praise first. It doesn't work that way for the young ones (and if you think about it, it doesn't often REALLY work for adults, either).
"Smile. I believe in you. Yep, it's confusing. Let's see if we can figure this out another way. I think we need a brain break- time to HAPPY SKIP! Whoo hoo! After we give our brain a break, it will work better."
Try those on for size- hope they help.
Michaele
And here my colleagues think I'm just being a goofball teacher when they walk by and gawk into the room, seeing me and my students "shaking our sillies" out.
;)
yeah, good idea! I try these out tomorrow and I'll let you know how it works.
Uh oh sounds like you miss 4th grade! Hang in there you will do fine! I have tons of CD's and I know lots of dances to go with them. I love doing music with the kids even if I look silly! If you want to borrow them or I can make you some copies let me know!
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