Science Education and Classroom Management SECO TRAINING 2015
Elevator Pitch Tips & Tricks Keep in mind the age of the audience Simplifying vs. dumbing it down Use analogies! Bring along visuals How does this relate to them?
Communicating Expectations Clear instructions and transition cues -Use clear, firm voice -Review needed safety rules -Make it accessible to all learners (say it/write it/show it) -Signal transitions with change in place or materials -Structure discussion/sharing Behavior Interventions -Refocus individuals as needed (casual, redirect and leave) -Recognize desired behavior -Remove temptation -Wait for full attention
Encouraging Participation Create Opportunity -Involve everyone with roles -Randomize student selection -Allow flexibility in student communication as needed -Invite peer consultation and facilitate peer response Build Confidence -Time to think (3 second wait time, adequate activity time) -Communication preparation (think/pair/share; table talk) -Honor all attempts and trust learner (let them speak, think, do independently)
Promote Thinking Responsive Support -Observe responses carefully to adjust lesson as needed -Circulate during activities to observe and assist -Refer back to visuals during discussion or activity -Summarize student thinking on the board or verbally Flexible questioning -Adjust selection techniques and answer formats as needed to involve group and individuals -Get multiple answers, add-ons, responses -Use revoicing and follow up questions to help clarify student meaning
Interacting with Students When should I step in? When should they work it out on their own? What should I do if a student is frustrated? What kinds of questions should I use for deeper understanding? Why do you think X is happening instead of Y? What would happen if you did _____? Why is this important? What would be another way of doing this and ending up with the same result?
Student Personalities (and How to Deal with Them) -The Scientist (following directions and having conversations related to topic) -The Non-Starter (not starting or stopped due to confusion, inattention, language barriers) -Speedy (finishes activity quickly, seems bored, off task or reading) -The Class Clown (wants group attention) -The Social Butterfly (Talking with friends off topic) -The Wanderer (moves around the classroom) -The Rebel (passive or active resistance to non-starter prompt or redirection) -The Rhythm Section (a budding musician and form of daydreaming) -The Helpless Hand Raiser (repeatedly needs more help and 1:1 attention; wants teacher to explain why) -The Fighters/Victims (Start and/or maintain conflict with another student) -The Expert (knows it all already and wants recognition for knowledge) -The Storyteller (long, possibly off-topic answers)
Questions?