Ready...Set...Go

In addition to the Virginia Standards of Learning and curriculum set by my county...
I plan to use my new 5K Everyday (derived from the idea of keeping pace in a K-5 classroom) plan in my classroom this year. It is designed to focus on 5 daily elements incorporated in my classroom that hopefully make the learning environment more engaging and motivating.  The 5 components that are wrapped into our day include...
Music
Movement
Art
Literature
Technology
and...a touch of nature!

Music
Music is used to set the mood in my classroom.  It offers easy transitions from activity to the next and allows students to practice self control as they wait for transition songs to begin.  Songs can have positive emotional attachments in life and this can help students make connections to their learning.


Movement
Crossing the mid-line involves using both sides of the body together.  Movement using bilateral skills can help build more pathways in the brain.

*Touch the opposite elbow and knee.
*Cross one foot over the other while walking sideways.
*Do “grapevine” walks.
*Knee Slap Walk- Walk around raising each knee while touching/slapping it with the opposite hand (or elbow). Change it to a skip while touching the opposite knee as it comes up.
*Windmills-Stand with feet spread apart and arms extended out to the sides. Bend over at waist and tap right hand to left foot. Stand back up and then bend and tap left hand to right foot.
*Point your left finger out and put your right thumb up. Switch them, and switch, and switch, and switch…
*Hold your nose, then cross the other hand over and grab your opposite ear. Slap your thighs and switch your hands…switch, slap, switch, slap…
Write your name in the air while rotating your foot in a circle clockwise.

Getting students up and moving throughout the day has proven to make learning more desirable and beneficial.  Students become participants in their own learning.  

Art

Art can be stimulating for students. Students connect to visuals.  When they create, they remember. 

Literature

Students should understand that reading is an integral part of learning in all areas, throughout their lives.  A classroom should be rich with literature and opportunities for students to create their own.

Technology

This generation of students is wired for technology and computers offer the world in our hands.  Using technology allows for students to take an active role in their learning rather than a passive role. 

Nature

Children love to go outside! It is proven that nature has profound effects on the well-being of adults and children!