Routines and expectations
Clear routines and expectations from day one help ākonga get the most out of your lessons. Here are some ideas that could be integrated into your classroom management.
Reward Systems
PB4L (Positive Behaviour for Learning) is a classroom management system that focuses on positive behaviour. To help with this you can use a readily available, fun reward system such as:
Class Dojo: An app where ākonga choose an avatar and are awarded digital points.
Banqer: Works like online banking, ākonga are awarded banqer dollars to save and can spend on a class auction.
Prizes: A good way to award prizes is to spin a digital wheel. Students get a place on the wheel for every point/dollar amount they earned that week. Try and find prizes that are free such as sitting on a chair, choosing their seat, no-homework pass, line leader, change your avatar etc.
School Reward System: Talk with your mentor teacher to learn about any systems already in place.
Class Treaty
Co-create a class treaty that outlines the expectations you and the students expect to see from everyone in class. A good starting point for this activity is using the school values. Waitangi Day also falls at the start of term 1, so this activity can even tie in with a history lesson.
Timetable
It helps to have a visual timetable in your classroom that is easy to read and understand. Knowing what the day is going to look like can reduce anxiety and stress in some students.
A weekly timetable with routine events such as library visits and swimming will help ākonga plan and prepare.
Daily Karakia
Karakia are Māori incantations and prayers that clear the space before a meeting or meal. Most schools will have karakia of their own, but if you find yourself without one, here are some commonly used examples.
Class Traditions
There are many events throughout the year that are perfect opportunities to learn about cultures and social celebrations. This is also a chance for you to share your own culture and knowledge with your ākonga.
You might want to start your own class traditions such as having a day at the end of each term where the students take turns teaching lessons, birthdays, or celebrate success with class auctions, prize-giving, shared meals, and whānau activities.
