Line Up - Single File

If you are at all like me, you've noticed that some things work really really well in your classroom, while other things just don't. I spend a lot of time self evaluating, not just my teaching, but all that goes with that - classroom management, housekeeping around the room, logistics, you get my drift I'm sure. And I am constantly making lists. I make so many lists that I actually bought myself this semi huge Post-it pad (it's like bigger than letter size I swear) and I fill it up with stuff to do, check em all off, rip the page off and start again with yet another To Do list. Every time a new idea pops into my head, I write it on the post-it list otherwise it may never pop into my head again.

So, one thing that was just not working in my class was the line up. I don't mean the line-up to go to recess or lunch, I mean the LINE UP, the one kids make when they have rushed through finished their work and just can't wait to show you. For me, this line up is my enemy. It starts out straight, then it takes a right curve, then a left, then the talking starts, there's touching, some poking, it's anarchy. And as this line begins to snake across my room, it blocks my sight lines and what was, 2 minutes before, a very quiet class working diligently has now turned into Happy Hour at The Keg.

I needed to fix this once and for all. So I put it on my list, gave it some thought and came up with this.

I know, I'm really fortunate I can write right on the floor with a Sharpie! Now the LINE UP has some order (no pun intended). You stand on a face and wait your turn. Rules - only 4 kids at any given time. No touching - how could you anyway the reach is too far now. Wait quietly so that the person who is with the teacher can concentrate. And I am happy to say it works like a charm. 

Just wanted to end by saying Happy Halloween. My kids took this sweet little book home for homework today.

It's on sale and so is everything else in my store. 

Whatever you're up to tomorrow night, have fun!