It is so important for young learners to learn about the world around them. First graders are of an age where they might understand that all families are different, but they have a difficult time imagining experiences that are different from their own. Here in Montgomery, we are very lucky to have a community full of different cultures and experiences that we can share with each other! Students will improve their questioning and conversation skills while becoming aware of cultures, traditions, and experiences that are different from their own!
Family and community are so important for our young learners. I hope that all families will participate in our classroom interviews as the school year progresses!
On Your Interview Day…
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens when I get to the classroom?
When you arrive the students will collect their clipboards, pencils, and papers to meet you at our interview spot: the carpet. There, you will be sitting in front of the class while I (Mr. Reeder) will be sitting nearby to assist in translating and facilitating questions. I will thank you for coming, we will greet you, and then we will start asking our questions!
Do I need to bring anything?
Our questions often revolve around what we already know about you and your life. We typically ask about your childhood, occupation, and interests. If you have pictures, items, or props that can show us about your life, please bring them in! Use your judgment. If you are unsure if something is safe or appropriate to bring into school, please email me (Mr. Reeder) for guidance.
How long will the interview take?
Plan to be at the classroom for at least 30 minutes. The interview may run longer depending on your availability, our questions, your answers, and the enthusiasm of the students.
What is the best way to answer a question?
Great answers are detailed, thought out, and tell us about yourself. Here are examples of a mediocre answer and a great answer:
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Hopewell, New Jersey.
Perhaps a thoughtful answer… but let’s try again.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I grew up in Hopewell, New Jersey. It was a small town, so most of us kids seemed to know one another. I was also lucky to have lived across the street from a school that had two playgrounds and lots of soccer fields.
With this answer we learned more about the interviewee and can now ask more follow-up questions about childhood friends, the playground, the school, or soccer.
Will the children find me interesting?
Yes. Never underestimate the wonder and curiosity of a first grader.
When does the interview end?
As we run out of questions or time the interview will be complete. A picture will be taken of the interviewee with the class to use for the book that we write about him or her! We will then thank you for coming in and say goodbye!