1. Text gems from Wong & Wong’s The First Days of School
Question: What do I need to do to set my class up for success the first few days of school?
Text gems from Wong & Wong’s
The First Days of School

2. Classroom Organization
Do not decorate TOO much
Desks in rows facing the front
Name cards on desks
Plan areas for student belongings
Assignment to complete immediately

3. Install Procedures & Routines
“A smooth running class is the responsibility of the teacher, and it is the result of the teacher’s ability to teach procedures.”

4. Essential Procedures Start of the day Dismissal Transitions
Quieting the class
Seeking help
Movement of students and papers

5. Procedures answer what to do when…
The bell rings
The pencil breaks
You hear an emergency alert signal
You finish your work early
You have a question
You have to go to the bathroom

6. Explain, Rehearse, Reinforce
Define the procedure step by step and then demonstrate it
Practice the procedure until it becomes routine
Praise the students when the rehearsal is acceptable

7. Classroom Displays Rules (no more than 3-5) Consequences AND rewards
Morning routine
Action items when work is completed
Proper paper heading

8. Jamie’s Gems Morning work is key Do not take roll as a class
Manage with a quiet voice
Have a consistent place for homework
Apply for classroom jobs
LOVE THE KIDS!