Class Size

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Class Size
By RTH

A class this large is really a challenge. In a group of this size I am sure you will have a wide range of abilities. Use the students as support for each other. Small group activities will allow the students to be involved
and engaged, without waiting so long for a turn to speak or participate. In groups, those more capable students can reinforce their skills as they assist weaker students.
Have interesting, but easily manageable activities for students to do when they finish work early. Word finds; puzzles; earphones, stories and tapes; etc. With this many students, you want to be sure everyone is

purposefully occupied, to avoid idleness leading to behavior problems.

Recruit parent volunteers!

Routines, procedures and appropriate behavior always become more of an issue with a class of this size. Teach expectations for procedures and behavior the first week of school. Do lots of modeling - even role playing- of what students should do.

Get a good night's sleep every night. You'll need a bundle of energy to keep up with 32 second graders every day!