Each school year I suddenly have Rodgers & Hammerstein's classic tune from The King and I "Getting to know you" in my head. All of these new faces are now in front of me with their own talents, insecurities, and questions. How can I teach all of these wildly different people?
Learn Names Do whatever you can to learn all of your student names in the first week. Study your class lists (especially if your student management system includes pictures). Each year I have each student hold a whiteboard with their name on it and take a picture. I then print these pictures off and hang them in my classroom. I use the digital files as flashcards and study the photos and names until I know everyone. Hanging the photos in the room allows other students to also learn the names. Why learn names? Students want to know you value them. This includes learning their preferred nicknames, correct pronunciation of their name, and even their preferred gender pronouns. Build Community Learning names -> shows you care -> helps build relationships -> leads to mutual trust -> builds community -> minimizes disruptions -> allows for learning ... and so on. Choir is a social activity and should be built on mutual respect. The more you know your students, the more music you will be able to do! Attend other events in the school. Ask your students about their other interests. Do not assume choir is their whole life just because it is yours! Plan choir social events such as game nights, bonfires, attending other musical events, or doing a service project. However, don't just throw a bunch of added activities to the calendar. Be purposeful and strategic - use your student leaders to gauge which activities would be the most beneficial and meaningful. Don't stretch yourself too thin with trying to do too much too soon. Consider using a "Student Information Form" like this to get to know your students. I used to use a paper version of this before our district had 1:1 technology. These take time to read but give me great insight into my students. It also allows me to see any major changes in students I have worked with in the past. Ice breakers There are tons of resources online for ice breaker activities to help your students get to know each other. My students love leading these activities so ask your student leaders to plan and run these activities! If you DON'T do name games and get-to-know you activities chances are the students will be less engaged and comfortable. Students will also not buy-in to games they feel are patronizing or childish so giving them ownership typically solves this problem! Sometimes students are really socially overwhelmed by ice breakers so breaking your ensembles into smaller groups can alleviate stress and anxiety amongst your group. ...It's a very ancient saying but a true and honest thought That if you become a teacher by your pupils you'll be taught,,,
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