The "First Day of Class" Checklist

The first class period establishes the structure, guidelines, goals and atmosphere. What you do in the first 5 min. can create a positive classroom dynamic.

Arrive on time (it’s better to be a little early, and be sure you have checked out the location beforehand).

Introduce yourself in Spanish. This is the first moment of self disclosure and depending upon the level of language understanding of the students and the instructor’s level of explanation, a brief description of one’s life can be given. Self disclosure is important in the development of classroom dynamics because students and teachers recognize the common human experiences, thoughts and feelings that we all share. As a result, the atmosphere is less threatening and students are willing to take higher risks in their communicative ventures.

Write the following information on the board:

· Your name (how you want the students to call you)

· Office Number

· Office Hours (you are required to schedule two office hours per week)

· Course Title and Section

· Date of Final Exam (location to be announced)

Administrative Matters

1. Take roll. Mark carefully all absences. You may decide to also keep an "unofficial" waiting list.

2. Remind students that:

a) Class size is limited to 25 students for levels 1 and 2;  to 20 for all other levels, and in rooms HH-100, HH 257, HH-342 and HH-344;

b) Adds will not be granted until after the third class meeting.  Make sure students are eligible to enroll into this level before you add them;

c) Go over the Course Information Sheet (syllabus) and the Day-by-Day program with the students. Explain the course objectives, grade distribution, attendance policy and point out the dates of the exams;

d) Tell the students that in the event they miss a class, they are responsible to find out what the homework for the next day is. They will do so by calling a classmate. (Have them take a minute to write down the name and number of the student next to them).

 

A. Name Game: It is to your advantage to spend 5-10 min. of the first day having the students repeat each other’s name in a sequential manner. It not only introduces the students to each other (if only by name), but it also helps you as the instructor associate names with faces. This is also a great ice breaker.

B. Review collectively some basic questions that reflect the appropriate level assumed target language knowledge.

C. Write the homework assignment on the board. Make sure they all know what you expect them to do for the next day.

D. Ask if there are any questions, comments or observations.

 

Good Luck!