Learning Environment
The classroom should be a nurturing environment that encourages self-directed learning.
Here is how I do this:
1. Create an environment of respect with hands-on learning activities that are at the students disposal to peak their interest.
2. As much as possible, provide activities that allow the student the opportunity to find the answers on their own. They gain a great deal of pride when they are able to problem solve on their own.
3. Individualize instruction as much as possible to reach all levels of students.
4. Use manipulatives to teach abstract ideas in a hands -on manner, so that children can make connections between what can be seen and cannot.
5. Encourage children to ask questions and seek out answers on their own.
6. Above all, teach children respect and courtesy by allowing them choice with limits and teaching them independence in their learning.
Classroom Discipline
*Discipline is training that corrects, molds, or perfects the moral character of a child. Here are the ways I do this with my students: 1. Praise and encouragement of good behavior instead of focusing only upon unacceptable behavior. 2. Reminding a child of behavior expectations daily by using clear, positive statements. 3. Redirecting behavior using positive statements. 4. Using brief supervised separation or time out from the group, when appropriate for the child’s age and development, which is limited to no more than one minute per year of the child’s age. |
Sample Classroom Arrangement |