Routines and Organization

The English department at Lake Stevens High School has displayed positively functioning, yet diverse classroom routines and organizational methods.

Mrs. Tilley consistently follows her routine with each class. She normally starts off the period by greeting the students, followed by the request to retrieve all the materials needed for that day, such as literature books, pencils, and paper. Mrs. Tilley explained that in order to keep students engaged, she tries to have about two solid activities planned for each class, that way students will not loose concentration with an hour long activity. She also believes that it is very important to give students time limits for their work so that students do not put off work until the bell or the next day.

Mr. Alderson also works towards maintaining a meaningful class day, and makes sure to allow students to be actively participating throughout the hour. Today he and his Creative Writing students mapped out due dates for the next few weeks. He allowed his students to talk amongst themselves and determine which days would be best to have tests, assignments due, and when to have work days at the library.

Some teachers that I've observed silently take attendance during free time, while others use the first few minutes of class to call out each student's name. Every teacher that I've worked with, however, is a firm believer of teaching from bell to bell--something that I too will enforce. Also, depending on what the class is doing, teachers will either answer the phone or let it ring, and if students are busy with a major assignment or test passes from the office will be held on to until the student finishes.

I'm learning a variety of teaching approaches in which I can continue to grow and find out what will work best for me and my future classroom.