Time is certainly counting down, and many of us are already getting back into school mode. As I look forward to those first few weeks, a few things stand out. Here is my checklist for organizing my classroom:
-Obtain class lists and make seating charts. I teach all of my classes in circle, and with only 30 minutes for class time, I do not want to waste time waiting for kids to figure out where to sit, or have issues arise due to arguing over where to sit and with whom. Having 'Spanish spots' as I call them, makes coming and getting right to class a whole lot easier.
-Label and stuff folders for each class. All of my students have a folder, from K to 4th grade. Getting these folders ready to go before school starts helps me stay organized. Inside of each folder are packets of Spanish related activities (grade specific) students can do if they finish class projects or activities. As well, I put in word banks each grade will use during the course of the school year.
-Create name cards which can be used in a variety of activities. I use these a lot, whether for picking a child to have a turn during a game or greeting, for choosing partners, for charts and more.
-Create assessment class charts. I begin mini assessments right from the beginning, whether it be for participation or discrete point assessments, or routine assessments like those I use during our greeting activities. Having these charts ready to go beforehand makes my beginning a lot less hectic.
These four steps are only the beginning, but they address the nuts and bolts of organizing and managing a large number of students. With these things set and ready to go, I can turn my attention to welcoming my students!
