Misconception

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I'm really not sure what people think of me, so I'm not sure about misconceptions in general.  There is one that students have had.  They think since I insist on having an orderly classroom that I am not fun and don't enjoy fun activities.  That is actually FAR from the truth!

Summer school was a perfect example.  I had such great, hands-on, team projects planned.  I quickly had to scrap the idea, though, when the class was so out of control that I had to focus on behavior.  I have a strong belief that we need to have the basics down first.  The students need to understand that when I give an instruction it is to be followed.  This is for their safety above all else.  It is also because learning doesn't happen in the midst of chaos.  Once the children understand the routines and procedures I am all about making learning enjoyable.

For the last year I have not been able to use the creative lesson plans the way I have wanted to.  I have so many good ideas, and I hate teaching out of the textbook as much as the students hate learning out of the textbook.  I promise I am not the wicked witch of teaching.  I WILL expect my class to be engaged in the activities, to treat each other, themselves, and me with respect, and to make a real effort to think creatively and critically.  I AM strict about these things, but that does not equate to being mean.