Linky Parties

1. Post about this linky party on your blog

2. Follow my blog.

3. Answer the following 5 questions (include documents if you have them):

- What grade do you teach? 

• I teach 6th grade LA and Creative Writing 4-8. 

 

- What is the greatest advice you received during your 1st year of teaching?

• Don't try to do it all, no one can make everyone happy all of the time.
• Make sure to take time for yourself.
• Start fresh every day (don't hold grudges).

 

- Do you have a checklist that you follow when preparing your classroom (include the checklist)?

No, since this is only my first full year of teaching, but I was given one by another LA teacher (I've added a few things):

 

• Unpack closet/organize books
• Hang up posters
• Redo bulletin boards
• Make new name cards for class folders (rotate from previous grade)
• Make new name notecards
• Review syllabus and copy/send out to parents
• Set up class folders on computer
• Get codes for AR access for new students
• Design seating charts (Talk with 5^th grade teachers)
• Copy roster for manual attendance
• Copy roster for emergency bag; include address and phone number
• Update restroom sign out sheets
• Update P.O.P. book sheets
• Write and mail family welcome letter.
• Decide on class rules and determine associated rewards and consequences
• Select icebreaker activity.
• Prepare to introduce students to the Web by locating an appropriate back-to-school scavenger hunt.
• Read through student files. This provides a glimpse as to problem behaviors, learning challenges and gives an initial impression of each child.
• Organize file cabinets
• Hang poster of the daily schedule.
• Check the computer and other technology devices. If they are not working as expected, turn in a request for repair now so it will be working by the time students arrive.
•  Post your name, room number, and the grade or class you teach, both inside the classroom and outside the classroom door. 
• Make sure to blog about lessons every day after they occur. Pros and cons.

- What are some must haves in your classroom that you cannot live without (ex. items, books, posters, management strategies)?

• Anchor charts
• Bathroom sign out
• CHAMP strategy (Conversation, Help, Activity, Movement, Participation)

 

- What is something that all teachers should have in their classroom?

• Chocolate (and water!) 
• a positive attitude

1.  What state you are in?

Kentucky

    2.  Your current teaching position

6th grade LA and 4-8 Creative Writing

    3.  Your teaching experience

Starting my second year

    4.  When you started blogging

This month

    5.  Share a blogging tip / blogging resource

Just search other teacher websites and blogs, along with pinterest, for great ideas.