NO MORE QUESTIONS!!!
Recently this facebook memory from a number of years ago popped up on my timeline...
Soon after posting this, I decided to attack the problem of non-stop questions that I really felt I shouldn't have to answer. I felt the need to help build independence and decision-making. What did I do? I created a list of questions I didn't answer. My reasoning: If I spent time building routines and procedures in my classroom, students should know what to do, and I shouldn't have to remind constantly.
I didn't make a fancy anchor chart...although now I'm thinking that would have been a good idea. It was just a simple list that we sometimes went back to and added questions.
So, what were these questions?
I didn't make a fancy anchor chart...although now I'm thinking that would have been a good idea. It was just a simple list that we sometimes went back to and added questions.
So, what were these questions?
The beginning of the year is all about setting up routines and procedures, so I do explain these questions and also explain why I won't answer them throughout the year. The kids catch on and will remind others who try to ask one of these questions. Here are my answers:
- What do I do when I'm done? It's always the same thing unless I wrote a specific direction on the board.
- When is snack? Same time everyday unless I tell you differently.
- What's for lunch? I'm not the lunch lady. Check the lunch menu on the wall.
- When's recess? Look at our schedule. (Schedule clearly posted on board with clocks)
- Do I have to? Yes. If you're asking that question then you know you should be doing something and you're trying to do something less than quality.
- Do you like my... (picture, etc.)? The important question is do you like it and are you proud of your work?
- Where do I put this? Same place all the time or check the chart on the board.
- When are we going to...? I will always tell you what you need to know when you need to know it. I always have a plan, and I will share it with you when you need to know it. If you're asking me this individually, then I think you're trying to get the inside scoop before everyone else....hmm...doesn't seem like something others would be happy about. :)
- Can I get a drink of water? Yes, as long as a teacher is not talking or teaching.
- Can I use, Can I make, etc., etc., etc.? What guidelines did I give you? Make a decision within the instructions given. Check the directions and the chart on the board. (I had a chart that showed what supplies they could use and what to do with it when done.)