Teachers can you help me please?

[dale_e_jr_fan_8]

I am a student teacher in my final semester of school. Last semester I spent part of my time with third graders and the other part of my time with first graders. I had a really hard time developing any kind of a rapport with my third graders and I have to start this semester back with them. I really want to establish myself with them because last semester I had to students tell their parents that I did not like them, and the parents expressed that concern to the teacher. It came up in my evaluation as a great concern. I did not have any problems at all with my first grade class and am looking forward to spending time with them. I sure would like some imput from other teachers on how to go about establishing rapport with my third graders. I will be with them five days a week starting Jan 17 and am not looking forward to it.

 

[mom2boys]

Not a teacher, but a parent. First of all, adjust your attitude. NOt meant to be a flame but you have already defeated yourself.

I will be with them five days a week starting Jan 17 and am not looking forward to it.

Relax.
Try to relate to the kids. Apparently you managed to do it with the 1st graders. There isn't that much difference in ages.

Do you have recess duty? Instead of standing around, get involved in their games - play kickball with them. Recognize the kid's efforts, not just their accomplishments. Give small incentives - coupons to sit with a friend for an afternoon or class period. Catch them doing something right - even if it is something that is expected, like turning work in on time.

 

[staci]

I would probably set up some type of contingency management from the get-go, where they can get rewarded for desirable behavior with something they would enjoy. If they can credit you with implimenting the program it may help you out with the rapport, and it should help you with classroom management as you begin to take control of the class.

Other thing I would do (and did during student teaching) is allow one day a week for 'lunch buddies', where 3 different students can come eat lunch with you in the classroom. It really gave me some time to get to know the kids outside of the learning enviroment, and learn about their everyday life. I put a signup sheet on my desk.

Final thing, AGREE WITH YOUR TEACHER ON EVERYTHING EVEN IF SHE WANTS YOU TO RUN OUT AND STEAL A BEER TRUCK (well maybe not that extreme but you get my drift). She can really make this experience great or difficult for you depending on her willingness to help you out.

Final thing, I would start a weekly newseletter going home to the parents telling about the week at school, what is to come, etc. This can help the parents get some 'contact' with you and they will be less likely to believe that you are just a 'meanie'.

Have fun and it is over before you know it!