Posts tagged "classroom routines"

Classroom Music CD’s and Instruments

Classroom music should be part of any teacher’s school supplies.  Many schools include music as part of their program; however, there are some schools where the classroom music is the only form of music education.  I listen to music with my little ones on a a daily basis.  There are many music CD’s for kids that help create classroom routines.  Some of my favorite CD’s in the classroom help me greet the students in the morning, clean up with them throughout the day and, and say a friendly good bye to them in the afternoon.  Music can calm kids while working on independent tasks.   There are also many great musical products for ESL learners that help kids develop phonemic awareness and even teach math skills.  Music is a fun way for students to learn new concepts.

Kid’s instruments are a great addition to any classroom.  I would use bells, drums, and rhythm sticks during whole group instruction when kids wanted to answer a question.  Sometimes when we were playing a game as a class, I would have students pick an instrument to use instead of a timer.  Just those little moments give kids exposure to instruments that they might not otherwise get.

I also try to incorporate classroom music books into our activities.  I think that social studies is a wonderful curriculum area to spend a little bit of time exploring music from a historical perspective.  Students always enjoy listening to new and old songs.  I know that I love music and I enjoy learning about composers and see the value that music can play in education.

Think about ways you can include classroom music into your day.  You can start out small, even by just singing with a good morning song.  Before you know it, you will have a great selection of music for your classroom.

Incentives and Motivators – What Motivates You?

Incentives and motivators are key components in the process of learning.  I know that I am more likely to learn new things when I am motivated, and kids are no exception.  When I am preparing to take part in an all-day in-service, I appreciate when the administrators provide breakfast or special treats throughout the day.  While intrinsic motivation is strongly encouraged in the school setting, incentives and motivators can be rewarding and used successfully for teachers and students.

When establishing classroom routines and norms, planning what incentives and motivators you will use during the year will help create a classroom community that is focused on learning.  For example, incentive charts can be used to monitor behavior and academic progress.  You can determine if you are going to use these items class wide or on an individual basis.  Classroom supplies such as motivational stickers and pencils can be rewards for students who successfully meet their goals.  This creates motivated learners and happy teachers.

For a job well done, awards or certificate can be meaningful to students and their families.  My mother still has many of the certificates I received throughout my school career.  Recognition is a powerful motivator.  Think about all of the awards ceremonies you have attended.

So you know that you want to motivate your students, but you are wondering what you incentives you should choose.  Well, ask your learners.  I believe that students need to be part of this decision.  Buy-in is very important.  One easy way you can find out what motivates the students is by conducting a class survey.  As the teacher, you need to create excitement about the rewards and recognize the individuals who meet their goals.  It is amazing how influential peers can be.

What are your favorite incentives?  Please share your ideas with us and visit us at www.k12schoolsupplies.net!