I usually spend the first few days doing a review of the previous grade. Many students forget what they learned during the summer and they need that refresher. I teach 4th grade and although we don't have a 1/2 day on the
first day, I plan on having an assignment on their desk when they walk through the door. I will also drill, drill, drill my rules and procedures. My students will know that the minute they walk through the door they are to sharpen pencils, put up belongings, take out homework and begin their seatwork that will be already on their desks. So maybe, if you don't want to give out homework,
you could go over your rules and expectations. They could always get their spelling & vocabulary list for the week. Don't stress!! Just treat the first day like any other day.
