split class

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split class
By RM

Hi
I agree with you on the concerns of parents whose child is in a split class, especially the higher grade. I was one of those parents myself once. I did not want my son being in a split class (since I was in one also
as a child and it was not wonderful) as he was scheduled and I had him moved.
Now being in the teacher shoes I see what can be a wonderful opportunity for the students as well as the teacher.
I have taught a 2/3 split and am having one again this next school year. First of all I would talk to your principal about the class lists. At first my class makeup was to be high second, low

third. For me as the teacher, the thing which is more important than high or low is the ability of the student to be able to work independently. It is much easier to be able to give a child a direction and have them follow it than to have them be so dependent on you. So as it stands right now, I have mostly high second graders, high to med third graders. But all are considered independent workers. Perhaps one low third but the previous teacher tells me she is an independent worker.

Ok..on to your question of parent concerns. Knowing my tentative class list, I already talked to a few of my parents before school let out this summer. I asked if they had any concerns or questions regarding the placement in a split. Most were not concerned, they said they trusted me and knew I would do a good job. A few had some concerns and I assured them that no matter the grade level, each child will be treated as an individual and be taught what they need to know for their grade level. I told them that most of my teaching takes place in small groups and that their child will be challenged appropriately. Sometimes you can also do some teaching exchanging with other grade level teachers if they are willing. If you feel confident and sure, then it will be exhibited to the parent. Treat your class more like a multi-age room than a split.

Don't forget your standards for each grade level. It is VERY important that the student gets what the curriculum states. Remember that your second graders just came out of first. Even though they are considered high from first doesn't mean they don't need all the second grade skills. And the low thirds don't need just a repeat of last year either. They need third grade work plus challenges. Challenge all your students. Try to integrate as much as you can having extension activities to go along with it. Think about having more small group lessons and many learning centers. I have found this to be much more effective whether teaching a straight class or a split. I have students do learning plans each day, this helps with accountablility. The only activities I do whole group is calendar,read aloud(group time), review of DOL, cursive handwriting, themes and some science and social studies. I teach mostly small groups and have one on one conferencing with students regarding writing, spelling, reading, and math. In regards to your spelling program. Do you have a district curriculum or is it teacher generated? I use individual student spelling plans. I think it is a lazy teacher who would give a second and third grader the same spelling list. Which is what sounds like that Mrs X did. And from what you say it sounds like she just taught at the second grade level. Each child is at a different level and that needs to be taken into consideration. Split or no split class.

I hope this has helped some. Just remember to challenge each student no matter what grade they are in. I am sure you will do fine. You seem very consciencious and determined to do a good job for all your students. Keep parents updated frequently so they can be reassured of what their child is accomplishing. Enjoy your school year.