The bustling energy of the first day of school is always a mix of anticipation and excitement, both for teachers and students alike. Today marked the beginning of another school year, and I found myself back in the classroom, ready to guide a new group of eighth-grade students on a journey through social studies.
Setting the Tone: A Daily Message of Inspiration
One of my classroom traditions is to begin each day with a daily message. This message serves as inspiration, a daily reminder of the values that guide us throughout the academic year. Today’s message encapsulated my aspirations for the students: to make them feel valued, respected, connected, challenged, and empowered. I believe that when students feel a genuine sense of belonging and purpose, they are more inclined to engage and excel.
A Hexagonal Tapestry of Connection
In line with fostering connection and community, I introduced a hexagonal learning activity borrowed from fellow educators Scott Petri and Erin Bakkom. The hexagonal learning activity, simple yet profound, proved to be an engaging introduction that set the tone for the collaborative journey ahead.
Students were tasked with filling out hexagons with personal information, ranging from favorite foods to places they love visiting. Once completed, the students found connections between their hexagons, emphasizing the importance of understanding and appreciating the differences within our classroom. The activity culminated in the formation of a cohesive web of connected hexagons.
Embracing the Marker Game
After this hexagonal learning experience, I sought to add an element of fun while deepening our classroom relationships. I introduced the marker game, a playful yet strategic endeavor. As a true/false game about myself, the marker game encouraged students to collaborate, communicate, and, most importantly, listen actively.
Students formed pairs, armed with dry erase markers, and raced to grab the marker when they believed a statement about me was true. The game taught not only about me but also about each other’s perceptions and shared knowledge. It showcased the importance of attentive listening and respectful interaction, building a foundation for respectful dialogue throughout the year.
The Journey Ahead
In the coming weeks, I am excited to introduce my students to a variety of EduProtocols, such as thin slides, sketch and tell, fast and curious, and Cybersandwich. These tools will not only engage their minds but also foster critical thinking, creativity, and collaboration – skills that will serve them well in their journey through both my class and life beyond the classroom.
As we move forward in this academic year, I am reminded that the first days of school are a chance not just to establish routines, but to plant the seeds of lifelong learning and connection. I look forward to watching the students grow, explore, learn, and chase better in the world of social studies.
More pictures and updates on classroom adventures will be shared soon.
Moler's Musings 