I have a number of practices for the beginning of each new school year. Before a new class comes into the room, I cover their work areas* with large sheets of paper, and put out buckets of markers. When the kids come in, Day One, they are given time to draw pictures of 3 or 4 highlights of their summer break. This is a calming activity, as there is no need to talk, nor is there a right or wrong way to do the work. The kids settle in, relax, and by drawing, display their personality, while at the same time they make themselves 'at home' in the class. Their drawing = their space.
There is additional time given throughout the first week to add more memories of add detail to the events they chose. At the close of week one, we tour the room and the artists describe their summer break. It is a great way for ALL of us to learn what interests the individual child, as well as some of their family structure, members and dynamics, and their general background. It is also another way to get the students accustomed to 'public' speaking. I believe the ability to talk in front of groups is an important social skill, and I weave opportunities for public addresses into my classwork as often as possible.
*I tend to teach with students seated at tables, not desks. Large work tables that seat at least four children per grouping work best. I think the tables afford greater work space and better practice with group interaction. Sharing, conversing, assisting, and creating happen in table groups with a more natural ease. It is a quick way to form hetero or homogenous groupings for lessons. Plus, it keeps kids from hoarding and clinging to 'their' stuff and space. It is communal and effective, in my experience. Oh, and it's much easier to keep clean and tidy!
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