Tips for first year teacher

2 replies·2d ago

Diane Sanders

·2d ago

Tips for first year teacherDiane Sanders

Hi everyone,

I’m a first year 1st grade teacher, and am about halfway through my first school year... I come from a different background (I majored in psychology and didn’t take education courses in college). Teaching is something I’ve always been passionate about, especially making education more effective for kids who need a different approach...

I love working with my students, but honestly, I’m feeling very overwhelmed. Classroom management is a huge challenge, and I’m still trying to figure out lesson planning and how to keep my students excited about learning (especially when we work in groups). I could really use some guidance.

First off I guess, does anyone have tips for classroom management and group activities? I’d also love any advice on finding the right balance between teaching all the materials and making learning less overwhelming for my students.

Thank you!!

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Emma Grace Wilson

·1d ago

Emma Grace Wilson

·1d ago

Hi Diane! I’ve been teaching for just about seven years now and have experience in 1st through 4th grade, so I know how overwhelming those first months can feel...

For classroom management, clear and consistent routines will help both you and your students. In first grade, visuals and simple signals (like a quiet signal or a "stop and look" cue) can work wonders. It of course doesn't work with all students all the time, but a great tool to use nonetheless... Also, try to make instructions and expectations super clear, especially for transitions.

For group activities, keep them short and structured. Assign roles like "materials manager" or "recorder" to give everyone a purpose, and model what you want to see. Keep things short at first, and as they get the hang of working together, you can build on it...

Most importantly, remember it’s okay to adjust your plans. If something isn’t working, try it a little different or go for something new altogether. Hope this helps!!

Amanda Hanono

·1d ago

Amanda Hanono

·1d ago

I've been there too @Diane... it definitely gets easier with time!