Make the most of every minute
Time is literally of the essence in the classroom. While, it may seem like an exasperating task, accounting for every minute in the classroom can drastically improve the learning environment and outcomes. It is not enough to make "judicious use of classroom time but also ensuring that what is taught has been carefully thought out and is of the highest possible quality" (Masci, 2008). Trying to cram in all the activities, learning goals, discussions, etc. can be frustrating for teachers. Doing a time audit can help teachers learn to focus on what is most important and construct the class and activities in such a way that students gain the most of their time in the classroom. There are many ways that teachers can make the most of their time: flipping the class, bell work, and use of technology, to name a few (Goodwin and Hubbell, 2013).
Another way is to establish routines. "The main task for a teacher during the first few weeks should be to establish the selected routines quickly and efficiently" (Appleton, 1995). By establishing routines, the teacher can cut out downtime that causes loss of teaching time. "Routine is something many students thrive on because they know what to expect" (Adkins and Scantling, 2015). Having routines allow students to know what to expect, decrease transition time and helps them to stay in "learning mode."
Another way is to establish routines. "The main task for a teacher during the first few weeks should be to establish the selected routines quickly and efficiently" (Appleton, 1995). By establishing routines, the teacher can cut out downtime that causes loss of teaching time. "Routine is something many students thrive on because they know what to expect" (Adkins and Scantling, 2015). Having routines allow students to know what to expect, decrease transition time and helps them to stay in "learning mode."
Resources
Maximizing the Efficiency and Structure of Your Classroom
Teaching Tips for New Teachers: The Importance of Bell-toBell Instruction
Start with a "Do Now"
Time Tools
Small Changes in Teaching: The Last 5 Minutes
Time's Up! Effective Use of Instructional Time
Teaching Tips for New Teachers: The Importance of Bell-toBell Instruction
Start with a "Do Now"
Time Tools
Small Changes in Teaching: The Last 5 Minutes
Time's Up! Effective Use of Instructional Time
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References
Adkins, M., & Scantling, E. (2015). Bell-to-bell teaching: Making every minute count! Journal of Physical Education, Recreation & Dance, 86(2), 49-53.
Appleton, K. (1995). Routines and the first few weeks of class. The Clearing House, 68(5), 293.
Goodwin, B & Hubbell, E. (2013). The Twelve Touchstones of Good Teaching. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Masci, F. (2008). Time for time on task and quality instruction. Middle School Journal, 40(2), 33-41.
Appleton, K. (1995). Routines and the first few weeks of class. The Clearing House, 68(5), 293.
Goodwin, B & Hubbell, E. (2013). The Twelve Touchstones of Good Teaching. Alexandria, VA: ASCD.
Masci, F. (2008). Time for time on task and quality instruction. Middle School Journal, 40(2), 33-41.