Transitions

Mike does a great job of transitioning from one activity or subject to the next. I have noticed that to get the student’s attentions and to provide an incentive for meeting at the rug he will often start a little song with the students at the rug. Often he will sing a song and use some of the names of the children that are with him at the rug. In addition he will sing very quietly in a whisper so that the children have to listen really closely. I have also found that Mike will usually give the children a warning of five and two minutes before cleaning up so that they are not caught off guard and so that they have adequate time to complete their project they are working on. In addition, mike uses a harmonica to gather the students up from recess and the children respond by walking directly behind him in line as he plays a joyful tune towards the school entrance door. Mike usually will sit with the children at the carpet when trying to get them to transition or he will roam the room giving the students warning and sometimes he stands next to the door to get their attention. Mike will use a bell to have students stop, look, and listen in the classroom and he will read a book to get them to settle down. I really like how Mike transitions the students from high-energy activities to calm ones. Mike will allow the children to have choice time in order to get settled right when they begin their day and after lunch. He encourages the children to get a drink of water, go to the bathroom, make a drawing, or read a book for a few minutes before expecting them to enter quietly and get right to work. I think Mike does a great job because the children honestly follow his lead and listen to what he has to say. When he sings a song, the children listen and follow his lead. I believe this occurs because he is gentle, soft spoken, and gives the students respect as people rather than talking down to them.