As we gear up for another exciting school year, it’s time to start thinking about how to set the stage for a successful and engaging classroom. The beginning of the year is the perfect time to establish routines, build community, and spark curiosity in your students. Here are some ideas for beginning-of-the-year activities and routines to help you hit the ground running.
1. Classroom Scavenger Hunt
A scavenger hunt is a fun way for students to familiarize themselves with the classroom layout, important materials, and classroom expectations. Create a list of items and areas for students to find, such as the supply station, the homework bin, and the classroom library. This activity encourages movement and collaboration, and it helps students feel comfortable in their new learning environment.
2. All About Me
Start the year with an “All About Me” activity, where students can share information about themselves. You can include math in this activity. This not only helps you get to know your students but also allows them to see the relevance of math in their everyday lives. Check out my Hexagon “All About Me” on my TPT store! The Back To School Sale on TPT is August 6-7!
3. Classroom Norms and Expectations– Have Fun With This!
Establishing clear expectations from the beginning is crucial for a smooth-running classroom. Involve your students in creating classroom norms by having a discussion about what makes a positive learning environment. Create a poster with the agreed-upon norms and display it prominently in the classroom. Revisit these norms regularly to reinforce positive behavior.⭐️CHECK OUT THESE RESOURCES AND MORE on TPT at Math Minds at Work:
4. Math Journals
Introduce math journals as a daily routine. Provide prompts for students to reflect on their learning, solve problems, and explain their reasoning. Journals are a great way for students to practice writing in math, and they provide you with valuable insights into their understanding and thought processes.
5. Group Work and Collaboration
Start building a culture of collaboration early on by incorporating group work into your lessons. Begin with simple team-building activities that require students to work together to solve problems. This helps to establish a sense of community and teaches students the importance of communication and teamwork.
6. Number Talks/Math Talk
Number talks are short, daily exercises designed to improve students’ mental math and number sense. Present a problem and ask students to solve it mentally, then share their strategies with the class. This routine encourages students to think critically and articulate their mathematical thinking. Math Talk Poster link HERE
7. Math Stations
Set up math stations with different activities that students rotate through. Stations can include hands-on manipulatives, math games, technology-based activities, and problem-solving tasks. This keeps students engaged and allows for differentiated instruction. EMAIL ME at buildingmathminds.tpt@gmail.com for some Freebies to get you started…Just type in Math Freebies!
8. Goal Setting
Have students set personal goals for the year. These can be academic goals, such as improving their multiplication skills, or personal goals, like being more organized. Revisit these goals throughout the year to track progress and celebrate achievements.
HAPPY TEACHING! Mary
Math Minds At Work with Mrs. DelBene 