Ways to Prepare Your Classroom for the First Day of Class

A week before the class starts is a busy one for most teachers specially the beginner teachers. When I was yet a beginner, I was nervous thinking on how to be prepared for the first day of class. But I was blessed to have co-teachers who were helping me out by giving some tips on how to do it. I took it by heart what they shared until I find my own style and ways on how to make my classroom ready and conducive to learning when the school year starts.

Here are some tips:

Bulletin Board displays

I see to it that my bulletin board displays are related to the topics that we are going to study for the month. I used to collect pictures from everywhere, Magazines, old books and posters so it would be easy for me to grab them and use it for display when I need them. Attractive bulletin board with interesting captions are good motivators for the children to study and learn the lesson.

Chairs

Chairs must be properly arranged ready for use. I always do seating arrangements for my students so that it would be easy for me to familiarize them. Sometimes I put their names on the chairs to make it easy for me to remember them or I let them wear name tags on their shirts for easy acquaintance. It is embarrassing when a teacher called the student and keep on asking " what's your name again?" I did experience that so I made ways to improve it.

Activity corner/area

I also make it a point that there would be an activity area for us to move around, do the experiment, art work, music and other activities that the class would be doing. Even if the classroom is small, I would find an area where we can have fun during activity time. Kids easily learn when they are involved in hands on learning, games and other activities to stimulate their thinking and make learning fun.

Study area

In the study area I would put small table and chairs for them to sit down and read something. In this area, I would make a mini library where dictionaries, news papers, books,magazines with colorful pictures are found. Kids are attracted to pictures a lot and sure they would be interested to stop by and spend time to read in this area.

Courtesy Corner

I usually have courtesy corner which is visible to everyone. In here, I would display courtesy words like thank you, you're welcome, excuse me, I'm sorry, good morning, good afternoon, I beg your pardon, May I help you, and other courtesy words which would remind them to be courteous in dealing with others.

Work display area

In this place, I usually display the products of their hands like art work, drawings, projects, experiment, test results that are commendable. This is one way also to encourage them to achieve more. Children are inspired to see their work on display. It will motivate them to strive and participate more in class.