Developing Class Rules as a Community

I'm sure you've all been working hard to get your classroom ready, if you're not already back in school.  

I've been stressing out since I haven't been able to get into my classroom, so I'm trying to use my time focused on other things I can do to prepare, and hoping I don't completely freak out!

Yesterday, I went through my materials for developing Class Rules with the children, and adapted them to include the Whole Brain Teaching rules.  Come see what I've done, and download your freebie!  (Click the Class Rules image!)

Praise - Good or Bad

I've heard a few references to the negative side of praise lately.  Hard to believe that telling a child they did something well can have adverse effects, but it's true.  It seems that the type of praise you give can either encourage or discourage a child to do well.  

Praise given in the right way can be quite powerful!

I found this Super Improver's Wall quite helpful in my classroom last year.  I learned about it through Whole Brain Teaching, and found it to be one of the most popular things about my classroom.  (The kids as well as the teacher loved it!)

Come over to Elementary Matters to learn more about Whole Brain Teaching and the Super Improver's Wall!

Whole Brain Teaching ~ Teach-Ok!

Whole Brain Activator: It takes learning to a new level. They have to listen attentively to you because they know in a few minutes, they will have to teach their neighbor. Then they have to use your words and their own words to teach their neighbor the concept you just taught to them.

 Teacher, "When I say teach, you say ok! Turn your body completely to your neighbor and teach them what I just said."

Clap a pattern. Teacher, "Teach!"

Copy the pattern. Kids, "OK!"

The brain listening to a lecture:

The brain on Whole Brain Teaching:

Jump on over to see a video and learn more!

Totally Engaged Students

Are you familiar with Whole Brain Teaching?  WBT is a great way to keep your students totally engaged, using much of what brain research has taught us about how learning happens.  Come on over to Elementary Matters to learn more about Whole Brain Teaching!

Sally