Classroom Management... I use the Love and Logic and Responsive Classroom, with a little bit of Whole Brain Teaching, approach to classroom management. I don't believe in making students feel uncomfortable or embarrassed. I will try my hardest to ensure that every student knows that I love and care for them by showing them the respect they deserve while also remaining empathetic and firm, yet fair. I believe in logical consequences for behavior, both good and bad. I also believe that choices are important and will allow for students to help make responsible choices in their actions as well as in the consequences for undesirable behavior. I also use Responsive Classroom techniques in my teaching as a means of creating and maintaining a strong, positive classroom culture based on relationships.
Morning Meeting is an essential part of our day. This lasts for about 15 minutes and gives us an opportunity to come together as a community to greet one another, share about ourselves, set goals, and prepare for our journey in learning. Students learn to listen and respond to one another, greet each other with respect, and have an opportunity to respond to a message related to our day. Ask your student about the greeting used each day or what they learned about other students in their class. You are also welcome to join us for morning meeting at any time which helps students and families to connect even more deeply with one another!
HOMEWORK I don't assign a lot of Homework because I feel that any extra time spent outside of school should be time spent with family or engaging in play. Therefore, the homework I do assign has meaning and purpose.
Reading is an essential skill that students will need to be successful in life because it encompasses everything that we do and learn about.
Students should be reading at least 20 - 30 minutes per week. The reading log is designed so students can complete their reading over the weekend, but minutes can be completed any time during the week. More minutes is encouraged! They can split their time up any way they choose. I have provided each student a log each week in order to record their minutes as well as what they are reading. This must be turned in each Monday.
Each week, most students are completing spelling tasks in school and have a test each Friday.
Spelling practice is the best way to help students know and understand their words. Students need to complete at least one spelling task each week to help them with their words. A sort template is provided with their words but students also have the option of completing one of the tasks on the Spelling Choice Board. This must be turned in on Friday.
Math and grammar practice are essential to brush up on and enhance skills in these areas.
Students will bring home a Spiral Review sheet on Monday. This sheet covers essential math and grammar skills that are practiced and built upon each week. This worksheet is due on Wednesday.
If at any time, your child is struggling with any concept in their homework, especially on the Spiral Review, please let me know. You can send me an email, call me, or write a note on their homework. This practice should not be a source of frustration and should never take more than 15 minutes to complete.
Upcoming Events... September 4 - First Day of School; 1/2 day 11:40 dismissal September 19 - Flywheelers Field Trip