(no subject)

[velvetpage]

I went shopping today, after the trip to the zoo, to get school stuff for my new class. The rationale is that I have money now, which will not be the case at the end of August; I have ideas now, which I want to be able to draw on at the end of August; and I'm excited now, rather than too nervous to get anything done, which is how I'll be in the week before school starts again. No matter how good the class or assignment might be, every teacher is nervous about the start of school.

I'm debating several different ongoing, routine-setting things to do with my class. I want to do a "problem of the week" in Math, preferably on chart paper which can simply be folded out and used again the next year. I also want to do daily writing journals using writing prompts; I've started typing these in 48-point font already. I'll stick them in paper protectors and use magnets to put them on the blackboard each morning. I may do a weekly newsletter, to go home on Monday nights, about the previous week and plans for the upcoming week, including the problem of the week. The kids would write most of it, which is what worries me; if they don't get it in on time, do I fill in the blank or let it go home like that - natural consequences, or make-it-look-good? It might also be a good way to send home spelling words or details about projects which need parent involvement.

There are so many things I want to do differently next year. I want to use all my bulletin boards in colourful and meaningful ways (there are six, very tall bulletin boards in this room.) I want more work routines than I've had in the past, especially for bell work and what-to-do-when-you're-done work. I learned a lot from taking over from a more experienced teacher this year, and I have to make use of that.

I've got two months to obsess over all of this. The old year isn't even over yet. (Slaps self up side the head)Get over it already!

Comments

[pyat.livejournal.com]

I've got two months to obsess over all of this.

Just so long as you don't obsess for the entire two months!

[kesmun.livejournal.com]

Yeah, there are much more fun things to obsess over. *G* *Innocent look*

[anidada.livejournal.com]

It's not obsessing -- you've got a plan already and you want to get as much of it out of the way in advance as you can. That's a good thing. :) At the very least, it means you're inspired!

[velvetpage.livejournal.com]

A voice of reason! THank you!

[anidada.livejournal.com]

De nada! Besides, obsessing would be if you were crocheting personalized desk cozies, or something like that. That would be intriguing, but worrisome. ;D

[velvetpage.livejournal.com]

Umm... does it count if I'm only doing it for my own?

Just kidding.