When it comes to having consistent classroom routines, I have always made sure to have a concise start and end of class activity. This allows students to be in the mindset of it’s time to start class, as well as having a wind down symbol to let students know we are wrapping up for the day. One Of the best things that we can do for our students is to create valuable and meaningful classroom routines, because students thrive having a consistent routine. It lets everyone know what is expected of them day in and day out.
One of the best practices that we can have for our students are daily routines when it comes to starting and ending class. Students thrive with a routine and when they know exactly what to do, as well as what is expected of them during class. This allows for you to have much smoother transitions during class time each day. Not only does it help them, but it helps you too!
I always like to start my class with a warm up. I like to use the Activité D’Échauffement. This can be used with multiple course levels. It is a great way to get the students thinking in French each day, as well as conversing after they finish it. I collect it weekly for class participation or class work points.
When it comes to ending class, I like to have the students complete the Billet de Sortir (This is on my TPT Store for FREE! 😃). This is a great way to review what happened in class that day or important information that students have already learned that you want them to work on. This is a great way to see who knows what at the end of each day, and it lets you know what went well, what didn’t and what you will need to clarify the next day or within the week. I collect this assignment daily, as well as weekly. At the end of the week I put in a grade for class work.
Here are my routines for the start of class when the bell rings:
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Students cellphones should be in their designated pocket on our cellphone chart.
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Students should be in their seats and working on the warm-up activity.
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As students work on the warm-up routine, I take attendance.
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We go over the warm-up activity and then begin class.
Here are my routines for the end of class when it is time for the bell to ring:
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I put the Billet de Sortir questions on the board and students work on the activity.
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I wrap up any last minute questions with students and explain the homework assignment.
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Once students are done with the Billet de Sortir they are allowed to get their cellphones.
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When the bell rings students are then allowed to leave class. (I never hold students after the bell for any reason. I know how stressful it is to get from one class to the next with limited time and I don’t ever want to add that extra stress in their day. If you need to talk to a student or talk to the class as a whole do it during class or at a more appropriate moment.)
You can find both of these items on my TPT Store and more!
What are some of your routines that you do with your students?
As always, I hope that you have found this information useful and helpful to you!
Merci,
Amanda