Before this meeting, I have thought about how I want my classroom to look, see, and sound, so I can guide them to see things my way. I want their buy in, not just compliance.
We begin by asking, “What do you want our classroom to feel like, look like, and sound like?” I write responses on chart paper. They usually try to list rules, but I redirect and encourage them to be specific and visualize. What does respect look like? By the end, they have almost always said: quiet, kids sharing, kids working, taking care of supplies, cleaning up after themselves, helping each other, etc. We hang display the chart for the next meeting.
Activity: Handshakes & Introductions
We model a proper hand shake: firmly (without trying to break my hand), back straight, no limp arms, and eye contact. We practice shaking hands with each other.
Next, we model introducing oneself: My name is Ms. D, it’s nice to meet you! **Handshake** student responds: It’s nice to meet you, too! My name is Malia. We then model how to introduce a friend, and take turns introducing each other.