6th graders

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Home : 2002 : January : 25

6th graders
By Annie-sorry but this is long

I am supplying this year for the first time and have been in grade six classes twice as much as anywhere else. Is there something about this grade that drives teachers to take more leave time? I am very firm with them, introduce
myself and state that my rules are simple. Cooperation, absolutely no talking out without putting their hand up and respect for myself and the others. Then I follow through. I remind them if they choose not to work in the time allowed, I will be there for them at recess and lunch time. When the class becomes too noisy, and they all do, I quietly go to the board and start counting

by fives. They always ask why and I tell them they are counting up seconds to pay back at the beginning of recess, lunch etc. It is amazing how this works- I have seldom got past a minute. I also tell them that they can earn the seconds back by good behavior, work habits etc. Does it work all the time-No! BUT it is wonderful how one minute or so of( and I insist on this) undiluted silence, works after the first time. YOu would think I am keeping them in for ever. If they make a noise we start again. I don't know why it works but it does. Once a principal walked in on us and I explained why they were sooooo quiet after the recess bell had rung. He laughed and said," Great idea!" Hope this helps.