The first day of school handouts are much more specialized than any other handouts you as a new teacher will ever give to your students. It meets the demands and needs of the new teacher orientation and the needs of your students.
There is much debate over the effectiveness of first day of school handouts. Here are some advantages:
- It relates to the visual element of teaching.
- It formalizes the structure of teaching.
- It can help for future reference and teaching aid.
- It sets the tone for an atmosphere of learning.
Disadvantages include:
- Students might throw it away or just stuff it in their bag.
- Follow-up is needed.
First day of school handouts include:
- an introduction to the subject material. This can consist of: a brief introduction to the subject, class requirements, breakdown of the grade, test and quiz dates and other special projects and/or performance tasks.
- a class list of rules and procedures. Highly recommended! You might consider leaving space for students and parents to sign and return to you. You then keep them in your files and can later bring it to the students' and parents' attention when the student misbehaves.
First day of school handouts are also about the students getting to know each other.
- True or false sentences about each other
- Workpage on "Find a student who..." (10-15 minutes max)
First day of school handouts should follow a standard layout.
- headings (date, class, subject, teacher's name)
- enough space on the margins, top and bottoms
- minimal visuals
- spacing
- reasonably large size font.
- clear wording, explanations and instructions
Other Teacher tips
- Always run off more than enough copies for your class. Keep a master copy for your own files and one for your staff.
- Add holes for students to stick in their binders or looseleaf folders.
- Follow ups can include future reference.
- Avoid handwritten handouts. Visuals add the user friendly touch.
- Make sure the instructions and procedures are crystal clear. Read them aloud to yourself.
- Always proofread your handouts for mistakes. Remember, you are the role model!
- Keep information to a minimum. Too many handouts is overwhelming!
First day of school handouts are also a good opportunity to practice classroom procedures and is a good time management technique. It is also reflective of your classroom management system.
Start with...
- handing the handouts for the right number of students in each row. Each student takes one and hands it to the student behind him/her. "Take one, pass it back!"
- Students quickly get used to this system and the teacher doesn't waste time.
An ice breaker activity on the other hand, involves more procedural introductions and follow-ups depending on class time.
Dorit Sasson - Hello! I'm an ESL instructor, teacher diversity coach and writer for the educational markets who writes on English language learners ...
