Great Activity for the First Day of School

To give credit where credit is due, this idea was given to me by a friend who also teaches music in the area. Each student wrote his or her name on a piece of colored paper. The younger students drew a picture, and the older students wrote their favorite activity in music class. It was a great way to learn names, incorporate writing, and listen to music all at one time. When the students came to class the next week, they were thrilled to see their names posted on the bulletin board.

It's All in Your Attitude

It's Friday. I haven't been this happy in weeks. And yet, looking back on the past week, it was perhaps the most influential week that I'll have all year. Monday and Tuesday I was convinced that I wouldn't truly love my job ever again. Two days of telling students to quiet down is enough to drive anyone a little crazy. However, for some reason, I woke up Wednesday morning with a strong desire to change things. I was determined to actually enjoy the job I've been studying for. I remembered a particular class during my student teaching experience consisting of 7th grade boys. Yes, all boys, and they were my favorite class. I remembered how my attitude was more pleasant and encouraged the students to learn and make music. That memory made me get out of bed while it was still dark and embrace the day. By the time I got to school, I was excited to see what would happen if I cut the students some slack and let them be kids. Well, it worked like a charm. I haven't enjoyed a day more than Wednesday . . . until Thursday came around and I experienced another wonderful day. An attitude check is never a bad thing - remember to do them often!

Behold the Magic of the Tuning Fork

I didn't know what to expect during my first day as a teacher in a public school, but I figured that I might as well look the part, so I tied a ribbon to my tuning fork and hung it around my neck. It was the best thing that I could do as a new teacher! The students asked me what it was when they entered the room, which led to a brief discussion about sound and vibrations. It's also the best way to kill extra time when the teacher's a little late because you can walk around the room and let each student listen to the "Magic Fork." I couldn't believe how quiet the room was. It even drew the attention of students waiting to get on the bus.