10 back to school teacher ideas for the classroom
Although the dates are often known, going back to school still takes a good number of teachers by surprise. Some teachers look forward to it but are always skeptical about the challenges they might face on the first week of resuming. The main worry is often about finding the right activities that would get students back into the rhythm. We carried out a research on different strategies used by teachers across the world and came up with a list of 10 back to school teacher ideas for the classroom. Identify what works best for you based on your context. Good luck!
- Map out a scavenger hunt
This idea is about hiding objects in different locations in the classroom and asking students to find them. It could be objects they usually use like pens, pencils, sharpeners, books etc. Another way of doing it is by focusing the activity around students and their friends; like finding out something about a classmate.
- Promise the class something nice
Kids like promises and gifts; always have this at the back of your mind as a teacher. This could be simply a school trip, a funny game, candies or any items that could trigger excitement amongst students.
- Make a Self-Portrait
A self-portrait could be using drawings or worded descriptions of themselves. This activity could also tie in well with the first idea mentioned earlier. At the end, get students to look at what their classmates came up with. This is much fun.
- Research alternative methods
Also research into other back to school methods from the internet. The best way to go is to visit large and active Facebook groups within different niches or subjects. Teachers are often posting questions and answers about their experiences. You can also ask questions or contribute to the topic. It’s a great way of always being updated with the latest methods.
- Make a Time Capsule
This is very common and equally a very fun idea. Teachers can ask students to write out their dreams and read them aloud. They can also put down things they hope to achieve during the semester. This can be placed in the time capsule till the end of the semester so that the students can see how much they have developed and achieved within that period.
- Start with a book read
This is another great idea for teachers. Start with an interesting book that is certain to make their resumption a memorable one. It could also be a book that tackles your subject from another angle. Check out trending books by age / class on Amazon or on relevant Facebook groups.
- Begin a guessing game
This is a great way to usher in a new topic in the classroom. It also gives you an idea beforehand of the level of knowledge students have on a particular topic. A guessing game will also enable you to identify students that are comfortable on some topics and will give you a good idea of class management.
- Share a story
Teachers can let student share stories about how they spent their holiday and interesting events that occurred. This would help in bonding and is also quite fun. Also remember to share your story to your class; especially those that could excite your students.
- Create a wall of happiness
Teachers can find out from their student what makes them happy. They can be asked to write them down and the answers pinned on the wall. Besides being a fun idea, it could also help in uplifting moods later on.
- Set a Goal
All students can be asked to set their goals for the semester for fun; this is a fun back to school activity which would have a long term impact.
If you have any great back to school ideas for teachers feel free to contact us so that we can make this list much complete. Let’s make a great impression welcoming students on the first day of school.
Bonus Idea: Remember students are coming back from a long break from studies and they might have lost the rhythm. Relax and don’t take things too seriously, they will get back into it over time.