I like to maximize instructional time and minimize transitions. In fact, truth be told, I HATE transitions. I understand that they are important when moving from one academic subject to the next. They give students' brains and bodies time to prepare for what's next. I am a big fan of brain breaks during academic transitions.
But..what about the transition to lunch or recess? I don't see the need to use any more class time than necessary for these transitions. The learning time is just too valuable! When I want my students to move very quickly from their space to a "moving line" (a line that starts moving out the door as quickly as it is formed) I use this chant to help create a sense of urgency.
I'm not even sure where I got it, but I've been using it for years. I say 2, 4, 6, 8 and the students make a quick and quiet line and we move seamlessly (usually) out the door. It's great for fire drills, too! Since we use it every day, the students have memorized it. I gave them a copy for their fluency folder to practice during read to self. Download the fastest transition ever and get a few extra minutes to read to your class!
Happy Monday! Today was a great day! My class practiced "read to someone" and it was a fantastic success! My kids loved the EEKK poem so much, they asked for a copy of their own to keep in their fluency folder. They also did a great job at the "check for understanding" strategy and asked for mini strategy cards to use as bookmarks in their book boxes. I can't wait until reading groups and strategy groups begin! I've got a gumball "motivation" machine waiting in the wings that will be perfect with our Candy CAFE theme.
Today I wanted to share one of the greetings we use during morning meeting! It's called the Rhythm Stick Greeting. We made our sticks on Music Smart day during the first week of school.
We used 3/4 inch PVC pipe (cut to 8, 10, or 12 inch sections with a PVC pipe cutter) and colored electrical tape to create our sticks.
We use them at least once a week during morning meeting or as a brain break activity. Students enjoy creating rhythms and leading the class in pattern making. Download the greeting chant and begin enjoying this activity with your kids! It's simple fun that lasts all year!
