Choices, routines, and students!

Student Choice

     The cooperative teacher uses many opportunities to provide students with choices. One example that is very popular with students is her coupon system. The students have chances to earn tickets throughout the week. On Friday, if they have earned 10 tickets they can thumb through her "coupon catalog" and choose a reward that they are interested in. She has a large array of fun choices for them and they absolutely love it! 

Students feel Safe and Loved!

    The teacher has created a very positive classroom environment with emphasis on teamwork and stamina. I was very impressed when the students were working on a computer based skills program. One student achieved a comparatively low level compared to his classmates, but he felt secure to announce his success and received a round of applause. No disparaging remarks were made, his classmates were all happy for him. Mrs. O always uses a very kind, encouraging tone.  If she gets exasperated or tired, it doesn't show. She phrases correction in very positive ways.  Her classroom is a very pleasant place to be, and the students line up to hug her at the end of the day.

Consistency and Routine lead to success

     Mrs. O has very clear routines and expectations of her class. She reinforces them with consistency, but also kindness.  Its the beginning of the year, and she teaches 2nd grade, so the students are still in training, but they do a great job. There are clear routines for lining up, walking in the hallway, coming in from recess, using the bathroom, and transitioning from one activity to another. The students know what is expected of them and live up to those expectations. If they start to slip a bit, she encourages them and has them practice, praising them all along the way. The classroom runs smoothly and the children are content and engaged.