Thought I'd share two news stories which might be of interest to use in the classroom in
the beginning of the class period or at the end of the class...
Instead of teaching the entire class at
the beginning of each class period, I floated from one cooperative group to another, teaching the math skills each group needed and wanted.
Sometimes teachers also use entrance tickets, which are given at
the beginning of a class period.
Most check in at
the beginning of the class period when they're scheduled as a mentor since that's easier for them.
I spend ten to 15 minutes at
the beginning of each class period demonstrating the skills they will need.
At
the beginning of a class period, BRIDGE teachers also might pass a ball around the room, asking each student to rate his or her mood on a scale of 1 - 5.
This video of Ms. Noonan's class shows how a five minute emotional check in at
the beginning of the class period can make a huge difference.
If you have students complete warm - ups at
the beginning of each class period, this will give you the time to take attendance quickly and quietly without disrupting learning.