The thing that surprised me most last week was how much kids want structure and routine. Last Friday I was called to an unannounced parent conference right at the beginning of my 4th block. The timing could not have been worst, because I think the first few minutes of class really sets the tone for the day. On a normal day my opening is a literacy activity from a quote. However, this day would be different because of the conference. Well when I returned, nearly 40 minutes later from the conference I wanted to pick up where my covering teacher had ended. But Nooo... imagine my amazement when one of the most disruptive kids in the class raised his hand and asked aren't we gonna do the opening cause I have something to say about it. Well the biggest smile rushed over my face and I said by all means, I will do the opening so you can make your comment. I said all of that, to say this. Even though kids sometime fight us tooth and nail on structure and routine they need it, expect it and deep down probably want it. It was a good day.
Sounds good that you have "trained" your students to expect this. It sounds like you have really established a routine.
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