Why Timers Are Good For Your Class
My first year of teaching was challenging. My classroom management was a mess and my students were not independent. Fast forward to a few years. I now teach first grade and put much emphasis on developing problem-solving, independent students. My classroom is more productive , and the school community is more cohesive!
1.Supports
Timers give students clear expectations regarding time management. Students are more self-sufficient by practicing and modeling. Timers provide a visual to match the time expectation. Timers help the teacher uphold the time stated and stay on task, students become aware of the block of time they have to complete their tasks and also inspire excitement for the students.
2. The Future and Life Skills
If you're comfortable or not, timelines and deadlines are a part of life. Providing timer live to my first graders creates the sense of accountability and maturity in my classroom. For instance I have had many occasions when my class have let me know if an alarm clock has been paused at more than x minutes left, when there is a need for more time. My students love the ability to ask for additional time, which I find very satisfying. It's fine to request extra time, and having the timer in a visual manner allows students to know when they can expect their work to come to an end. Students are focusing on the mandatory tasks (must complete) immediately so they can move on with their preferred center activities. Making use of timer live has taught invaluable lessons and life abilities. The concept of independence, accountability, time management, and the idea.
3. Boundaries
Timers create clear boundaries in the classroom. It's work time when the timer is on. When the timer is over it signals the start of an era. The timer indicates that the task has to be completed. They can ask for support or extra time as required, but it is helpful to identify and label the time , so that it is never unclear when it takes to complete something.
4. Community
A healthy classroom community is vital for academic and life skills. My classroom has become more connected by using timers and creating more self-sufficient students. My students now are more aware of their time. They know the need for more time for an activity and request for assistance from me or a friend or a teacher, if needed. My students are problem solvers in a variety of ways. My students are accountable for their behavior as well as their work. My students are concerned about their peers and offer support when they need it. These words like responsibility, independence, and accountability might seem overwhelming, but they are attainable in the elementary school environment with the right support. My students are extremely responsible and show respect for each other.
Establish a sense of community and culture within your classroom. Classroom independence is built. Establish the expectations and routines that you would like for your students.
