Observation 1:
Effective Classroom Management Techniques Observed in the Classroom
The classroom observed used many management techniques that support a healthy and happy classroom. While many could be addressed, there were five that seemed to be used on a regular basis within the classroom. The use of wall space and music were elements that were utilized well. Also, the organization of opening activities and completed work were obvious factors within this classroom. Finally, the use of a PAT bank was well exhibited throughout the time observed.
The first aspect that was noticed within this classroom was the use of wall space. The teacher observed had three large windows within her classroom. This consumed the majority of wall space that other teachers within the school were given. Of the remaining wall space, a majority was dedicated to displaying Kelso’s Choices. These “choices” promote students to work together to problem solve with their classmates. However, these were attached to a lattice that had replaced a bulletin board. While this was an interesting touch, I felt as if a bulletin board could be used more effectively. On an adjacent wall, the teacher uses this space to display math concepts of addition and time. There are two large interactive clocks on the wall that are used on a regular basis. The wall space is also used to display the daily special helpers in a way that can be seen but not touched by the students. Finally, there two boards in the classroom. One was a typical whiteboard. The other was a promethean board that is used for morning work and circle time.
Another aspect of management used successfully within this particular classroom was the implementation of music. Music was used to signify certain transitions and provided directions for students. Each song provided a signal to move to the floor, line up, etc. It was also used in instruction to provide an idea of the time that the students have to work. It was used during math that the music was played to motivate the students.
Organization was also a key component of the visible management within this classroom. First, the teacher welcomes most of the students as they enter the door. As the students enter they place their bags in their designated areas, students then find their morning work is posted in the promethean board. Any worksheets they are to do are placed on their desks before they enter. Students typically come in a greet one another but start to work immediately. This is impressive since the observation occurred within a second grade classroom.
Next, the organizational strategies used for collecting and grading completed work were visible. After students complete work, they are to turn it into a labeled basket next to the teacher’s office and main workstation. This same area holds the basket for the return basket of the Friday Folder. After being checked for completion and correction, student work is file into their personal folder within a portable case. This folder holds all of their work for the week. Any work that needs to be copied or kept for conferences are pulled out and placed in another manila file folder in the child’s larger folder. Parent notes are kept in the same manner. At the end of the week, every child’s Friday Folder is completed with little work.
These four aspects of classroom management may appear small. However, their influence on the atmosphere and temperament of the classroom is noticeable to those who enter the classroom. Without these organizational and strategic plans set in place, the everyday paperwork of this classroom would smother the learning that occurs in the room.