We made it through our first day of school! WOOHOO!
What an extraordinary whirlwind of fun! The day was spent learning some class routines, playing some fun icebreakers (so we could get to know each other a little better), and we may have even gotten a little dancing in with some GoNoodle dance videos! Let me just say, our class has got MOVES!
Earlier in the day, we spent time talking about what we want to get out of the year. Instead of having me create a list of rules for the classroom, I wanted the students to have a say in the expectations for the year. So we compiled a Class Contract where the students included things they thought were important for us to focus on as a class. After discussing each element of the contract, all the students agreed to it and signed it, just like you would a business contract. We also decided that we could make changes to it throughout the year as we see fit. We also discussed how signing the contract did not mean that you were signing your life away, but rather that you agree to try to uphold the elements of the contract to the best of your ability. The words on our contract will serve as the foundation for our class for the year.
I explained to the students how I view my role in the classroom. I emphasized while I am here to guide them in their learning, I'm here to learn too! Being new to the school, I assured them that they will be showing me the ropes and getting lots of opportunities to teach ME this year (I think they liked the sounds of that).
This afternoon, we watched the solar eclipse online (since it was so lovely and rainy outside)and holy COW! What a sight to see! Although the kids were a bit disappointed we couldn't really see what was happening outside, we were very grateful for the live stream as it gave such a great view and also provided extra background information.
What an extraordinary whirlwind of fun! The day was spent learning some class routines, playing some fun icebreakers (so we could get to know each other a little better), and we may have even gotten a little dancing in with some GoNoodle dance videos! Let me just say, our class has got MOVES!
Earlier in the day, we spent time talking about what we want to get out of the year. Instead of having me create a list of rules for the classroom, I wanted the students to have a say in the expectations for the year. So we compiled a Class Contract where the students included things they thought were important for us to focus on as a class. After discussing each element of the contract, all the students agreed to it and signed it, just like you would a business contract. We also decided that we could make changes to it throughout the year as we see fit. We also discussed how signing the contract did not mean that you were signing your life away, but rather that you agree to try to uphold the elements of the contract to the best of your ability. The words on our contract will serve as the foundation for our class for the year.
I explained to the students how I view my role in the classroom. I emphasized while I am here to guide them in their learning, I'm here to learn too! Being new to the school, I assured them that they will be showing me the ropes and getting lots of opportunities to teach ME this year (I think they liked the sounds of that).
This afternoon, we watched the solar eclipse online (since it was so lovely and rainy outside)and holy COW! What a sight to see! Although the kids were a bit disappointed we couldn't really see what was happening outside, we were very grateful for the live stream as it gave such a great view and also provided extra background information.
All in all, I'd say our first day was a smashing success!
I can't wait to see Day #2 brings!
I can't wait to see Day #2 brings!