Maya Cohen
The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you'll go. - Dr. Seuss
Educator in training
Classroom Management:
Classroom Expectations
Setting classroom expectations is crucial. Furthermore, developing these expectations and rules with your students is beneficial as students work collectively to decide what should be the standard in the classroom. Moreover, classroom expectations help in developing a safe learning environment for all students. Below are some examples of how I have established classroom expectations and classroom management skills with my students during my third field placement.
Bitmoji
Incorporating emojis and Bitmojis in my lessons have been a great way to set classroom expectations with my students. I present many of my lessons on a smartboard, including my bitmoji has been a great way to capture students’ attention. Using this tool, I can start each lesson by explaining what I expect from them and what they need to do to have a successful lesson. Depending on the grade level I am working with, I will adapt how I set my classroom expectations.
Money System:
To set classroom expectations and ensure that students follow the rules, I will use a money system in my classroom. I implemented this idea into my classroom during my third field placement. Students would be rewarded with money when they follow the rules and respect me and my CT. This was a fun way to reward students with a sale that included candies, stickers, and rings. The students loved this idea, which allowed me to keep control of the classroom.
Morning Message:
To set the tone each day in my classroom, I will start with a morning message. My morning message includes all the necessary information for the day, allowing the students to know what exactly to expect. I used this throughout my fourth field placement and found this to be a great tool for students as it sets the tone for the day. Alongside my morning message is a daily quote which I will discuss with the students and as them to share their opinions on.
Classroom Inclusivity:
Classrooms are highly diverse places filled with all types of individuals. Students have different needs, and it is essential as educators that we meet these individual needs. It is crucial that regardless of a student’s ability, we continue to push and motivate them to be the absolute best version of themselves. Therefore, I would like to include the following in my classroom to ensure inclusivity.
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Various teaching methods:
As students learn in various ways, it is important to target all types of learners in my classroom. I will do so by:
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Target various types of learners (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
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Providing various ways of demonstrating understandings (written, oral, use of technology)
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Allow for various types of learning opportunities (individual, collaboration)
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Determine the best ways my students learn to benefit their educational needs.
2. Differentiated seating options:
It is essential to understand that not all students can learn simply by sitting at a desk. Therefore I would like to include the following:
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A rocking chair
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Stools
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Bouncy ball
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Stationary bike
3. Provide support that benefits all students:
Throughout my field placements, I have learned the importance of providing students with constant support.
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Differentiated instruction
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Scaffolding
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Give students choices
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Encourage active listening through engaging activities and lessons.
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Allow for a lot of participation.
4. Diverse library:
Providing students with a diverse library is extremely important. Firstly, I believe that all students should be able to see themselves in the literature they read. Therefore, providing literature on different cultures, different types of families, LGBTQ+ etc., is extremely important for children. Furthermore, it is vital to educate our students on these subjects and be open-minded and aware of others around them.
Classroom design ideas
Classroom design plays an essential role in each child’s education as it can impact their behaviour and work ethics. I believe in the importance of good lighting for students. This includes as much natural light as possible. Furthermore, I think it is vital to display student work around the classroom, allowing students to take pride in their work and share it with classmates. Lastly, I would like to provide a relaxing area with comfortable furniture where students can go when they need a break.
Examples of student work:
Examples of student work I included around the classroom. I believe in the importance of displaying all student work ensuring they feel represented within our classroom.
