We will be using ClassDojo every day in first grade! ClassDojo is an interactive classroom management tool that connects students, families and teachers to build wonderful classroom communities. The first graders will receive points each day for "Being Respectful", "Following Directions" and much more! There will be whole class rewards for their good choices made each day in the classroom. The students may also receive dojo “reminders” of their behavior based on their choices. This is a neutral point that just gives your child a reminder of their behavior and communicates their choice to you immediately.
Every student and family will receive a class code during the first few weeks of school that will enable everyone to be connected to not only the daily points but also to our classroom story! This is where I will be posting pictures and videos of the students reading, writing, thinking, creating, having fun and so much
more!
Flexible seating enables student choice, increases student engagement and improves student participation. Students will be given a variety of seating options and asked to choose a seat based on what is best for them as learners. They will be able to choose between stools, standing tables and many floor seating options such as yoga mats, bean bag chairs, pillows, etc.
During the first week of school, time will be spent trying out all of the different seating options and the first graders learn all about our classroom expectations for flexible seating. They will sign a class promise with the understanding of the expectations below...
Our Flexible Seating Expectations:
- Students will choose a seat that helps them to do their 1st grade best!
- Students will use the seats appropriately.
- If a spot is not working, students can move to be more successful.
- Mrs. Doane has the right to move anyone at any time!
Edsurge Article: Why the 21st Century Classroom May Remind You of Starbucks
In Grade 1 this year, we will be using whole brain teaching to not only engage students in everyday learning but also to reinforce our classroom expectations with hand gestures. During the first few weeks of school we will be learning and practicing our expectations. The following expectations will also be tied into our ClassDojo points!
Whole Brain Class Rules
- Follow directions quickly
- Raise your hand for permission to speak or leave your seat
- Make smart choices
Our Class Promise
We promise to...
Be respectful
Be responsible
Be caring
Be safe
If a student is not following our classroom expectations
the following steps will be taken:
1. Brief whole class review of expectation using our hand gestures
2. Warning
3. Dojo Reminder and Logical Consequence
4. Phone Call Home if a Pattern of Behavior is Noticed