Ana Said:

Too Much Homework-How Much is Overwellming for High School Students?

We Answered:

Four hours a night sounds like an awful lot to me. If you are using your time wisely, then it is too much. It was a long time ago that I was in high school, and I never had more that an hour or two a night, and I wouldn't think there should be much difference today. You didn't say how much time your school mates spend on homework. If they are spending the same amount of time you are, I would have my parents speak to a principal. If you have to stay up late doing homework, how are you supposed to be well rested and alert for classes the next day?

Alexander Said:

I am a first timer with a high school ED Resource room. What are some hints to keep good classroom management

We Answered:

First of all, best of luck. This is not an easy position for any teacher, let alone a first-timer. Some suggestions that I have seen be effective in other behavior units:

1. Emphasis should be on social skills first, then academics. Many of these kids are smart, but their behavioral difficulties get in the way of their learning (duh, that' s why they are in your classroom in the first place, but you'd be amazed at the number of teachers in these types of units that try to force all academics, all the time as in a regular classroom). The sooner you recognize this, the better off your classroom will be. If an opportunity arises for a social skills "teaching moment", take it! You will most likely have to reiterate the same points repeatedly. Just remember, as frustrated as you get, multiply that by ten and that's how the kids are feeling.

2. Post a list of rules and expectations that is front and center in your classroom. Make it big and noticeable. I know you're in a high school classroom, but believe me, these kids need this type of structure, as childish as it might seem. The rules should be stated positively, making it clear the behaviors you WANT from the kids, not what you don't want. For example, rather than "Do not get up without permission", try "Raise your hand for permission to leave your seat". Or rather than "No calling out", try "Raise your hand before speaking." Keep the list of rules short and simple, and use positive language. Other rules you might want to include: 1. Use polite language; 2. Show respect to peers and teachers; 3. Follow directions. Also, you may want to demonstrate each rule on the first day of class. That way, there is no pleading ignorance that the kids didn't know what "polite language" is. For example, state the rule first: "Use polite language". Then give examples (I don't like, I'm not happy with...) and non-examples (curse words). Again, it sounds childish, but it will help set the tone for the year (i.e., that you aren't taking any crap. These kids may have problems, but they aren't dumb. They are going to know you're new and use that to their every advantage. You need to let them know from day one that YOU'RE in charge, not them).

3. You might want to ask if you can get carrels for your classroom. These kids tend to get distracted easily, and having a desk with sides helps them to be able to block others out when necessary. It also allows for a private cool down spot if needed.

4. Establish a level system for behavior. There are many different types of systems. Most systems I've seen use daily "point cards" with the level system. Students earn points for appropriate behavior throughout the day. Each level requires a certain amount of points, and has certain priviliges that accompany it. A child is able to work his way out of the behavior unit and into regular classes by earning points and moving through the levels. Check out my resource for more on how to set something like this up.

5. Reinforcement for appropriate behavior is essential. It needs to be immediate and plentiful. You should follow the 3:1 rule; that is, for every one negative comment, your should be giving three positive comments. Praise every instance of appropriate behavior, no matter how trivial. Make sure to be specific, so kids know exactly what they did to get the praise and what to do for next time. For example, rather than "Good job, Billy", try "Billy, I really liked the way you asked permission when you wanted to use the stapler." That way, there is no confusion about what Billy did correctly, and he'll now be more likely to ask permission in the future.

6. Get used to ignoring ALOT. Many of these kids crave attention, and in the past, their negative behavior has gained them alot of it. Well, things are going to change in your room. That's one good thing about this type of classroom; you can alot more slide than in a regular classroom. These kids are button-pushers, and guaranteed they will find your hot button and push and push. If the behavior isn't what you want, IGNORE IT. In addition, praise someone who IS doing the right thing. For example, if Billy (poor Billy!) is cursing and whining to get your attention for help on a worksheet, ignore it. Rather, go and help someone who is quietly raising his hand. Be sure to point this out: "Thank you, Chris, for raising your hand and being quiet. How can I help you?". Along these same lines, learn to let stuff go. These kids are going to curse, shout, and be generally obnoxious. Some can help it, some can't, and even the ones who can control it can't do it all the time. If it's not harming the child or someone else, let it go. As a wise person once said, you need not attend every battle you are invited to!

That's all I can think of off-hand. One of the best resources out there is Jim Wright's Intervention Central. Here, you'll find all kinds of resources and tips for behavior management, with easy to use print-outs and fun ideas for rewards systems and such. www.interventioncentral.org and www.jimwrightonline.org

Again, best of luck!

Joshua Said:

Should I teach High School or Elementary School Spanish?

We Answered:

I am also k-12 certified but let me tell you, I find high school to be easier. But maybe your are an elementary person at heart. Your first year of teaching anything at any grade level is tough and nothing really prepares you for it. If you are really unsure about elementary, you might want to sub first and see if you fit. Teaching in your neighborhood has pluses and minuses. I teach in the neighborhood that I live in and I really do not have any issues, but then again, you have to be careful about somethings. I would at least apply. Just because there is a job opening does not mean that you will get it. Apply and see what happens.

Jessie Said:

Time Management?

We Answered:

Here are some tried and true suggestions:

1. Make a "To Do" List Every Day. Put things that are most important at the top and do them first. If it's easier, use a planner to track all of your tasks. And don't forget to reward yourself for your accomplishments.

2. Use Spare Minutes Wisely. Get some reading done on the bus ride home from school, for example, and you'll kill two birds with one stone.

3. It's Okay to Say "No." For example, if your boss asks you to work on a Thursday night and you have a final exam the next morning, realize that it's okay to say no. Keep your short- and long-term priorities in mind.

4. Find the Right Time. You'll work more efficiently if you figure out when you do your best work. For example, if your brain handles math better in the afternoon, don't wait to do it until late at night.

5. Review Your Notes Every Day. You'll reinforce what you've learned, so you need less time to study. You'll also be ready if your teacher calls on you or gives a pop quiz.

6. Get a Good Night's Sleep. Running on empty makes the day seem longer and your tasks seem more difficult.

7. Communicate Your Schedule to Others. If phone calls are proving to be a distraction, tell your friends that you take social calls from 7-8 p.m. It may sound silly, but it helps.

8. Become a Taskmaster. Figure out how much free time you have each week. Give yourself a time budget and plan your activities accordingly.

9. Don't Waste Time Agonizing. Have you ever wasted an entire evening by worrying about something that you're supposed to be doing? Was it worth it? Instead of agonizing and procrastinating, just do it.

10. Keep Things in Perspective. Setting goals that are unrealistic sets you up for failure. While it's good to set high goals for yourself, be sure not to overdo it. Set goals that are difficult yet reachable.

I hope this helps.

Angela Said:

Do you know any jokes or riddles where the answer is 'time' or something related to time?

We Answered:

I've included a link for you to a vast variety of free-to-download games which should provide something appropriate.
Sadly, the only "time" joke I know is along the lines of "I haven't had sex since 1954, and it's already nine o'clock", which although humorous when related to the 24-hour clock, is possibly quite inappropriate. My apologies.

Virginia Said:

Need help with time management in high school.?

We Answered:

I would say go to the library to study after school. There are too many distraction at home. I am the same way too. Set time to study for different subjects.

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Caroline Said:

Do you think I can handle high school and a part-time job?

We Answered:

I'll share with you my own story. I too wanted to work a part-time job during high school but was strongly encouraged to concentrate full-time on my academics and produce good grades. Well, I took that advice, didn't work, and graduated with 4.2 gpa. I was accepted into every college and university I applied to including Princeton and Yale. I decided to go to a very good public university. My grades were good enough to receive a tuition waiver from the state, and I was given a LOT of scholarship money from various sources. Since there was so much it, I was able to use the money for purposes other than just buying computers and books and paying fees. I bought a car, stayed in the best accomodations on-campus, ate the best foods around, and got a free ride all the way to my Ph.D. I made money off my grades and I'm fairly certain that with your academic background you could do the same. Concentrate on your academics and the money will come TO YOU. Good luck!