First Day of Class
The first day of class is always my favorite. It sets the tone for the rest of the term. I always start with getting to know the students, and try to remember one thing about each one that is unique.
What do others do on the first day?
I think that learning the names of my students is one of the most important events in the first day of class. I have acknowledged them as individuals, and I have established their identities amongst their peers. This definitely makes my students feel important, and lets them know that I care.
Hi Maribeth,
The first day of class is exciting. I like the icebreaker you utilize; this a good way for students to begin building relationships with each other.
Patricia
I really enjoy the first day of class! I introduce myself and share some of the reasons I chose "our" field. I continue by asking each student to stand and introduce themselves and tell the group why they chose "our" field.
Hi Melissa,
I like it! It is an awesome way to get to know each other and to get students to become more comfortable.
Patricia
Melanie, I too think it is important to get to know my students a bit on the first day and have the rest of the class learn about one another as well. As an "ice breaker" I have each of my students stand up in class to introduce themselves to the class and tell two things that are true and one thing that is false about them. It gives me a chance to learn a bit about each student and I can then comment on that certain thing throughout the quarter or ask them more about it. However, it also allows the students to get to know a little bit about each other too. Plus, as hard as it is to get the students to interact with one another on the first day of class--it really helps. The students have fun guessing which item may be false. This is a fun activity for all ages on the first day of class.
I agree with you thoughts. It seems to me that a successful and engaging first day will lead to more successful days through out the term.
I like to engage students with ice breakers so they can share something "unknown" - yet safe to divulge-about themselves. This connects students with similar experiences and it builds a rapport among students.
Hi. I'm a new instructor, so I like being able to read all of your ideas. For my 1st day of class, I intend to hand out slips of paper with 3 standard questions to ask a classmate. There will be space for each student to add an additional question. Then each student will introduce another student to the class. Following that icebreaker, I intend to tell the students a little bit about myself, then focus on the syllabus. I intend to keep the papers with info on the students to help me get to know them better. -Jeanne
Hello Shantelle,
I give a participation grade in my classes to encourage participation.
Patricia
I find it difficult to get the tongues wagging with my students (usually the one's right out of high school, trying to appear "cool") and feel like I'm having to fish to keep the conversation rolling. Sometimes I feel like I end up doing most of the talking, just trying to get everyone to engage.
Hi B. A.,
I phonetically write out hard to pronounce names.
Patricia
Hi B. A.,
You can determine if an extra dosage will be needed on the first day. I've had this experience, and I let my students know this class can be as exciting as YOU help me make it.
Patricia
Hi B. A.,
I am sure most students appreciate getting the assignments early. Your nonprocrastinators probably take full advantage of this.
Patricia
I give the students all the assignments and requirements for the class on the first day so that they have a very clear idea of the work so they have less of a sense of being overwhelmed later in the class.
I try to establish the level of interest in the subject matter of the class. I think it helps to know if they are really engaged the first day or will need an extra dose of help to make the class meaningful for them.
I always try to pronounce my students names correctly...a challenge with the diverse groups that are now enrolled. I also briefly try to engage the students as to "who they are." I think that to memorize all names on the first day a challenge due to huge class sizes that can happen!
The first day is very imporant. I have students stand and tell us a little about themselves such as what are some of their goals and also some of their hobbies or interest, this really seems to break the ice and the whole atmosphere of the room seems to relax the students.
Thanks Bill
Hi Katherine,
The instructor should always be in control when grouping students so that groups are divided equally based on ability.
Patricia
I like the idea of the cards. I have been using a information sheet that they hand in to me but this would combine the ice breaker and the information sheet. I like your grouping ideas. Most of my class is lab time, divided into groups of four. Dividing them myself may help mix the students more effectively.
Hello Richard,
This is a super first day icebreaker, and the best part is it is all positive. :-)
Patricia
