Tips for Third-Grade Teachers
Third grade is a time of significant social and academic change for students. Teachers have to be ready to address myriad issues while providing engaging instruction and a nurturing learning environment for each student. Start the school year on a good note by implementing tips to help optimize your students' chances for success.
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Expectations
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Set your expectations high for the school year and let students know from the first day that they're being held to a loftier standard. Third grade is the year of transitioning into more complex subject matter and students can't afford to lose any time in their cognitive development. Hold students accountable for homework and other assignments. Don't overlook careless mistakes or sloppiness. Enlist the help of parents to reinforce your standards at home. If students fall short, find out why and focus on getting them up to par.
Attitude
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Your students will need a lot of support and reassurance as they face the third grade's new and difficult challenges. Keep a smile on your face and maintain an upbeat attitude. Try to give every student personalized attention at least a few minutes per day, and let her know you care about her performance and success. Be patient; some of your students may struggle. Have a sense of humor and stay calm. Avoid showing negative emotions, such as frustration or irritation.
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Observation
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Keep your eyes open for signs of social problems among your third-graders. Third grade is a time when social divides can begin to appear. Some students flourish while others lag behind. Watch students for signs of loneliness or ostracism; healthy third-graders will begin to pull away from family and become more deeply involved in a social world all their own. If some students appear to be struggling socially, consider reorganizing your lesson plans so that students spend more time interacting with one another.
Organization
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Keep your third-graders on a schedule so they become accustomed to transitioning from activity to activity. Establish rules and consequences for breaking them--then follow through. Similarly, set up a reward schedule so students know what to expect for good behavior and you're ready to give it to them. Over-plan for class so students stay busy at all times. Keep important materials, such as cleaning products, a first aid kit and student information cards, close at hand and easily accessible. Present a strong and organized front to your students and they'll quickly fall in line.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit teacher image by Twilight Dragon from Fotolia.com
