Assume the Best

Introduction and Assume the Best

Focus of Chapter

Effective teachers often internalize certain key, positive assumptions about their students and themselves, to the point where they may not be aware of what those assumptions are. In this chapter we unearth, identify, and focus on these assumptions, because they form the foundation of our teaching experience and frame the actions we take. When we start to assume the best about our students and ourselves, teaching changes and magic happens.

Objective

Unearth, identify, and focus on key positive assumptions that form the foundation of our teaching experience and frame the actions we take.

Key Points to Remember

• Effective classroom management is essentially invisible.

• Assume the best about your students.

• Teachers must teach procedures and behavior.

• Students want to learn and they want to behave.

Getting Ready

Reading

Chapter 10 Getting Ready (pages 140 - 153)

Focus of Chapter

Organization and preparation are keys to smooth teaching and smooth classroom management. These are particularly important skills to learn for a new teacher, or one who is transferring to a new school or district, because there are so many things to do and consider. This chapter lays out much of the nitty-gritty of getting ready before the students arrive, as well as what to do in the first weeks of school. And Chapter 11, “The First Week of School,” along with the online toolbox, provides detailed lesson plans for what to do in the first five days.

Objective

Create a clear and comprehensive substitute plan that ensures continuity of learning, maintains classroom routines, and supports all students in your absence.

The First Week of School

Reading

Chapter 11 The First Week of School (pages 154 - 169)

Focus of Chapter

Planning a solid first week of school helps set a positive tone for the rest of the year. The first week should combine the teaching of procedures, rules & consequences, academic content and establishing positive rapport with students. In this chapter the elements of a well-planned first week of school will be laid out along with replicable templates and planning guides. In addition, the online toolbox will provide dozens of sample lesson plans and activities that teachers can use, or adapt for use, in the first weeks of school.

Objective

Analyze and apply effective strategies for launching a successful school year.

Key Points to Remember

• Your actions and inactions set the tone in the first week.

• Every day of the first week should include establishing rapport, teaching procedures, teaching content, and reviewing rules & consequences.

• Students are nervous on the first day and have many questions and needs that need to be met in order for them to feel safe.

• Be prepared to feel under-prepared, no matter how much you prepare.