When I saw this linky I knew I had to check it out and join. Sometimes the simplest tip can make your teaching life so much easier.
I recently had a sub for just an hour so I could observe a new teacher. I went over the plan with her and started to leave when she stopped me and asked where the worksheet was that she was supposed to pass out.
The thing is, I don’t pass out papers.
How do I manage that?
When my students walk through the door, they pick up what they’ll need.
I found these magnetic paper holders at Lakeshore which work well for me. You could have a paper try next to the door.
I love that the students pick up their own paper on their way in. Every minute of teaching time is valuable. If I save a minute or two everyday by not passing out papers, that really adds up.
I use a similar strategy for homework. I put the homework out each week and it is their responsibility to pick it up on their way in or out. The beauty of this is that I’m not the go between. I no longer hear, “You didn’t give me the homework.” (How does a child expect me to believe that one??) If a student looses their homework, they don’t have to stress and confess it to me, they just take another one.
I have a basket I call the “Extra Basket” where I place extra papers when I change them out for the day or week. If a student has a missing assignment, they can get another copy from that basket on their own. If something does need to be passed out (like a flyer from the office) the kids pass it out and put the extras in the Extra Basket.
I have cubbies where I keep forms that we use in the classroom. I have the students ask me before taking something from a cubby just so they don’t waste paper, but still the responsibility is in their hands.
There is also a spot for scratch paper. They are allowed to get one of those whenever they need one.
I used to feel like a waitress sometimes. Running around in circles, handing things out, fulfilling requests for more paper. Now, I feel like a teacher. When students tell me they need a certain paper now, I say, “I guess you should do something about that.”
Do you have a tip for me?
Kristin Kennedy says
I really like this idea of putting students in charge of getting their own papers. Might have to try this out soon.:)
Kristin
iTeach 1:1
Hilary Gard says
I think your ideas are great! Especially the homework… I also have an extras bucket, the kiddos always know where to find an extra! Thanks for linking up!
Hilary
Second Grade is Out of This World
I am a new follower!