The First Class

So I have the most wonderful job in the world! I work with the most interesting children that are the smartest in the school. I have had plenty of time to prepare for my very first class. What do I do?

My first class was a 3rd grade gifted class. For some reason, I was petrified. These kids were so bright! You could tell so much about them just by looking at them. No, they weren’t all well dressed. No, they didn’t all smell good. No, they weren’t all well behaved. But, the way they looked at me. They were studying me from the moment they met me. They had been in the gifted program in 2nd grade and of course had a different teacher. They were curious about me. I felt like they were processing me from that first moment. Would I measure up?

I started by introducing myself and telling the kids about me and my family. Some of the kids knew my nieces that were also in this district. They found out pretty quickly that I use my sense of humor to break the ice, that I’m a huge Mississippi State fan, and that I had been teaching forever! I allowed them time to ask me questions and tell me about themselves. I asked them about what were their favorite parts about being in this class. I also had them fill out an interest survey. It’s important to allow them to have a part in directing their learning. The next activity was a team building exercise. I explained that sometimes in this class they weren’t going to be able to figure out something all by themselves. I wanted them to learn to work together. Basically, they were divided into 2 teams, given materials, and had to build a chain using only one of their hands to participate with their team. I have a attached the activity for free here. My assistant principal came in during the activity and joined in. There was lots of giggling, talking, and brainstorming. All in all, it was a fun experience for everyone involved. We completed the reflection activity and had a group reflection to compare experiences. If time allowed, depending on the group, I allowed time for free “brain growing” challenges. One of the silly things that I say to all of my classes, is “You want your brain to be juicy and fat, not dusty and dried up!”. I know, it’s corny. It’s just my way of saying keep learning. I’ve included a list of items that are great “brain growers” and tons of fun for kids when they have extra time or are looking for an extra challenge.

1. Flashing Cube Electronic Memory & Brain Game
2. Kanoodle (Class Favorite)
3. 3-D Puzzles
4. Hexagon Puzzle Challenge
5. Scramble Square Challenge Puzzle (Class Favorite) -aka Squzzle
6. Rubik’s Cube (Class Favorite)
7. Speed Cube Set
8. 3-D Gravity Memory Maze
9. 3 in 1 Chess, Checkers, & Backgammon Game
10. Kanoodle Gravity
11. Interlocking 3-D Puzzle
12. Mind and Logic Puzzle