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Home : 2004 : March : 19
" We are a new school (this is our 2nd year)." I'm a little confused. If it is only the second year, then there is
It sounds as though your principal has lost control of the school. I have heard this same line, and to a certain extent it is true. But sometimes it is necessary to resort to a "higher authority." There is only so much the classroom teacher can do if any teaching is to occur. "Yesterday, one of my students interrupted me 14 times during a 20 minute mini lesson (none of his interruptions pertained to the lesson). I don't mean to be critical, but a true "mini-lesson" should last no more than five minutes. Of course, with fourteen interruptions, five minutes easily stretches to twenty! "Problem is, my kids are so hyperactive that their attention spans are not long enough to stay focused all day without breaks." "I have requested a transfer for next year to middle school, where I will only have to teach one subject.... I will only have each group for 1 period instead of all day." Maybe you could teach the rest of this year more like a middle school. Change subjects frequently so that students don't have a chance to get bored. Of course, you will be changing subjects and not students, but a different pace might be good for both you and your students. The transition times will automatically serve as mini-breaks. Just make sure you have a solid routine so that you don't lose control during these transitions. Is there any way to incorporate more physical activity into your academic lessons? I know that where I live it is still too cold and wet to do anything outdoors, but if that's not the case where you are, maybe they could do an academic activity outside, where they have to more around more. Simulations in social studies, measurement activities in math, lab projects in science, and grammar games in language arts all could be designed as outdoor activities. If going outside is not an option, can you incorporate more movement in your indoor activities? I know this goes counter to trying to maintain order in the classroom, but at least they can burn off some of that energy. For the test drills, they can stand in lines, answer questions, then move to another part of the room, or back to the end of the line, or something. At least they will be moving. I think the change of grades will be good for you. Just getting a clean slate can make a huge difference. I am so tired of reading about schools that expect students to remain seated quietly while at the same time reading articles about the poor health of our children because of their sedentary lifestyles. We're talking out of both sides of our mouths. In my opinion, the subjects most likely to be cut are actually the most important ones--PE and the arts. Physical activity and aesthetic pleasure help to prepare the mind to learn. Are the decision-makers all imbeciles? Maybe you could have a class meeting. Getting the kids on your side is a step in the right direction. They know when they're misbehaving, and often they have good solutions for their own problems. It also sends the message that you care about their opinions and want them to be successful. I hope you can push through the rest of the year. I know it is very difficult to work under the conditions you describe. Just keep pulling for your kids, and start thinking about next year as an incentive to keep going.
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