Begin Your Day # 2

     I have realized that guest teachers as well as teachers have different styles and methods to their teaching.  So I have decided to give more options and you can choose which way you like to begin your day.   So throughout the next two weeks, I will be giving different tips to begin your day with the students who you do not know.

To be a successful guest teacher maintaining control of the class is the main importance.

    Too many times, the guest teacher enters a classroom, and the discipline the teacher has may be too complicated or too detailed for you to get acquainted for one day.   Students do need a change once in a while.
   What we need to do is have a plan in place for discipline throughout the day, and use it every time in your classroom.    Take time at the beginning of the class to explain your plan, the consequences, and the reward.  For example:  You could put ten tally marks  on the board or change it up to something fun like drawing 10 apples, dogs, or cats and explain that you expect them to be the best students they can be.  I am printing the picture above and using them for my discipline marks. If they shout, interrupt or break the classroom rules you will erase a mark for each time.  If they are rude to you or another class member you can erase two marks. 
    Explain they are on a team and we are all on the same team.  Let them know they can "WIN" or "lose", it is up to the.  Let them know that no one is perfect and they may lose some points, but if there are any points at the end of the day left on the board they get to play a game if nearly everything is accomplished.  
    Important: Quick reminders are needed through the day of what you expect, especially when they have come back from specials or lunch.   So they can be on task for you.