Pencil Check-In

May 11, 2005

Kathy Gaji, a second grade teacher at Brookside Elementary School in Binghamton, New York

After being continually frustrated when my second graders didn't have sharpened pencils ready when needed, I started a morning check-in. After the children get their coats off and order their lunches, they come to see me. They need to bring two sharpened pencils and their selection of books for independent reading time. I check them off an alphabetized list. I note on the list those who need reminders to put on their glasses or show me their often-forgotten home folder. Besides ending the frustration of unprepared students, this check-in also gives me a chance to greet each child as an individual and make him/her feel welcomed and ready to begin the day.

COMMENTS:

1 - 4 out of 4 Comments | Add your comment

Barb | 2011/10/11

What do you do if they don't have the required items?

Mark | 2011/10/09

How many student do you do this with what do the "waiting" students do?

Nancy Claggett-Staff Development Teacher | 2011/10/06

Wow, this is a superb idea! I am adding it to my folder of ideas to share with my teachers. Thank you for sharing this!

SL | 2011/10/05

This is a good way to greet your students. I think this strategy will work for my older students as well who need help using their time wisely before the start of class and it can serve as a more effective way to take role.

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