Good practice demands that we post our objective, homework, etc. for every class. But many of us are actually traveling teachers. Heading to each room before the bell to write the agenda on the board is not just irritating - it's a waste of precious time! Fortunately, many classrooms now have a Promethean or SmartBoard in each classroom, with a dedicated A/V computer attached to the network. Take full advantage of it!
Second, I have a slide that lists the order of what exact tasks we'll do that day. It may be links to video clips, activities, or worksheet names. The notes section at the bottom is useful, too, as I can record how long an activity took, if any classes didn't quite finish, etc. You can also add a slide with an exit slip. |
I particularly like including a slide that shows student grades. Most grading programs have an option called 'public posting', that lists grades by student ID or some other anonymous number to keep confidentiality. Students love being kept up-to-date and it is a helpful reminder for those who have work to make up. I show this at the beginning of class, before the bell rings. Students hurry to get into class & see their grade before I turn the page to the warm-up.
PowerPoint isn't the only option, though. ActivInspire, for those with Promethean boards, or the SmartBoard program, are also good for this. The point is to keep you from spending time recreating the wheel every class, every room, or every year.
PowerPoint isn't the only option, though. ActivInspire, for those with Promethean boards, or the SmartBoard program, are also good for this. The point is to keep you from spending time recreating the wheel every class, every room, or every year.