Resetting After A Break

 As we begin to think about returning to school after the holidays, remember it is a transition for both students and teachers. Many students didn't have a structured day during the break, so reteaching expectations is the key to resetting after a break. Resets can also be done, just when students need a reminder or an opportunity to work on behaviors.



Welcoming Students Back

Before students return, send them a message to communicate what they should expect when they return to school. This message can include expectations, upcoming projects, content, etc. Get students excited about the return to school.

Before Students Return

A few days leading up to the return, think about the expectations that you would like to work on with your students. Prioritize which expectations should be addressed first. If you can, combine a few expectations into your daily routine, this can help with the issue of time. 

Once you have your list, write out what each of these expectations will look/sound like, what it shouldn't look/sound like, and logical consequences or warnings for each. 

Here's an example:

Entering the Classroom and Voice Levels

What it Looks Like:

Walking in at a Level 0 

Looking at the TV monitor for needed supplies.

Get all supplies you need before sitting down.

Begin Do Now/Warm-up Immediately.

Explain to students they have until the timer goes off to begin their Do Now/Warm-up or a consequence will be given. 

Logical Consequences:

1st Redo Expectation

2nd Since time have been wasted...student will do whatever activity missed during specials/lunch etc. 

Do not give extra time to complete whatever activity THEY missed due to now following the expectations.

First Day Back

Explain to students that during the break you had time to reflect on a few things that needs to be done to make sure they are ready for completing the school year successfully. Take one expectation at at time to teach it, model it, and practice it. When practicing, it is important in this step you address when it's not being done correctly. Practice a few times, then allow students time to show what they know! When they are doing it...if they are not following expectations...it is important you address it immediately. Make them redo it, and/or give a consequence. 

While doing your reset, remember not to rush it. Investing time in teaching, modeling, and practicing the expectation now, will save time later. Your reset may only take a few minutes, or it may take a day or two. Be firm and consistent during your reset. It is important that your teacher demeanor is giving the "I mean business" vibes. 

Be consistent. Sometimes I review these expectations and what I am looking for daily. I rather spend a 30 seconds reminding students of what I am looking for. 

TIP

If you want your students to get it correct the first time...Give an incentive. If you have multiple classes, you can say that you are timing the process and the class who does it the best, in the least amount of time will get a prize/treat.

Let me know in the comments if you are planning to do a reset and what is your number one expectation you will be working on. 

Need a list for classroom management? Check out the my website for more resources. 

My TikTok Channel has a lot of sample Classroom Management Strategies - Classroom Management Playlist

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Top 5 Math Strategies Every Student Should Know for Building Math Fluency

Math fluency is essential for students to confidently and efficiently solve problems. Here are the top five strategies that can significantly boost math fluency, complete with examples to illustrate their importance and application. 1. Learning Counting Strategies Counting is the foundation of all math skills. Developing strong counting strategies helps students understand numbers and their relationships. Examples: Counting On:  When adding 5 + 3, start with the larger number (5) and count up: "6, 7, 8." Doubling: 2 + 2 = 4, 3 + 3 = 6 Skip Counting:  Useful for multiplication, skip counting by 2s, 5s, 10s, etc. For example, counting by 5s: "5, 10, 15, 20, 25..." Practice Tip: Use visual aids like number lines, counters, or fingers to help students practice these strategies. Interactive games and songs that involve counting can also make learning fun and engaging. 2. Using Mental Math Mental math involves performing calculations in your head without using paper, calc...
Read more

The Importance of Deconstructed Standards for Math Instruction

Image
In the ever-evolving landscape of education, deconstructing math standards has become a pivotal practice for enhancing instructional effectiveness. This process, which involves breaking down complex standards into more manageable and teachable components, is essential for several reasons: Math standards often encompass broad and abstract concepts that can be overwhelming for both teachers and students. The deconstructing standards resource, will allow educators the opportunity to pinpoint specific skills and knowledge students need to acquire. This clarity helps in setting precise learning objectives, ensuring that instruction is targeted and purposeful. When you understand your standards, you can create more detailed and coherent lesson plans. Each deconstructed element serves as a building block for lessons, enabling a step-by-step approach to instruction. This systematic method helps in scaffolding learning, allowing students to build on their knowledge progressively and ensuring no...
Read more