Good way to start the day

Actually, I do NOT remember my first day in the classroom, as every year had a first day that I always treated as THE first day, and they all blur. But I agree, starting with confidence and ... See More

Actually, I do NOT remember my first day in the classroom, as every year had a first day that I always treated as THE first day, and they all blur. But I agree, starting with confidence and organization does help. I do not pass out books the first week (as I feel they are overemphasized) but I do pass out a homework assignment - after I do a PowerPoint or Prezi to introduce myself, they are to make a storyboard for their presentation and to start collecting materials to introduce themselves to the class for 5 minutes -these are a lot of fun. My favorite first day demo is the double pendulum, and I can leave it up for a few weeks until students feel comfortable enough in my class to try it for themselves. They frequently bring in friends from other classes and teach it to them! The first day is always exciting, the first of 20th year, so channel the energy to make for a good year!

Own the Day

All of us who have taught remember the first day of school. We were nervous to say the least. This article describes what to do that day. Make a good impression, over prepare for the day, ... See More

All of us who have taught remember the first day of school. We were nervous to say the least. This article describes what to do that day. Make a good impression, over prepare for the day, have a student info sheet for kids to fill out, learn names and end the day or period with a something of high interest for the students. This sage advice will hold for every first day of every year for all your classes.