Expectation Gallery Walk

Objective: Students will collaborate to analyze and discuss expectations for each key routine, deepening their understanding through peer discussion and recording observations.

Materials:

• Routine Posters for each station (Entering Class, Transitions, Group Work, Lining Up)
• Chart paper at each station
• Markers

Prep:

• Arrange four stations around the room, each featuring one Routine Poster and a sheet of chart paper with markers.
• Number or label each station clearly (1–4).
• Prepare a timer for station rotations.

Steps:

1. Divide class into four small groups and assign each group to a different starting station.
2. At each station (3 minutes per station):
   • Read the Routine Poster together.
   • Discuss these prompts:
     1. What are the key steps of this routine?
     2. Why is this routine important for our classroom?
     3. What is one tip to do this routine smoothly every day?
   • Record your group’s responses on the chart paper.
3. When the timer rings, groups rotate clockwise to the next station until all groups have visited every routine.
4. After rotations, reconvene whole class.
5. Invite one representative from each group to share a key takeaway or tip from one of the stations.

Extension/Follow-Up:

• Display the chart papers around the room as a visual reminder of routines.
• Post a classroom “Top Tips” chart summarizing the best student-generated strategies.

Classroom Simon Says

Objective: Students will reinforce classroom routines through attentive listening, quick responses, and self-monitoring after each command.

Materials:

• Simon Says command cards focusing on routines (e.g., entering class, transitions, group work, lining up)
• Timer or stopwatch (optional)

Instructions:

1. Gather students in a circle or open area.
2. Review the rules: only follow commands that begin with "Simon says."
   • If a command is given without "Simon says," students must stay still.
3. Draw a command card and read it aloud (e.g., “Simon says walk quietly to the carpet.”).
   • Praise correct listening and execution.
4. After each command, prompt self-monitoring:
   • Ask: “Did you follow the routine correctly? Thumbs up or thumbs down?”
   • Encourage students to share one thing they did well or one thing to improve.
5. Continue for 2–3 rounds, mixing routine commands with occasional “no Simon says” tricks to keep students alert.
6. Debrief:
   • Ask: “Which routine command was easiest? Which was hardest to remember?”
   • Reinforce how routines and self-monitoring help our classroom run smoothly.

Sample Commands:

• Simon says walk quietly to the reading corner.
• Simon says sit in your assigned seat and prepare your materials.
• Simon says form a single-file line at the door.
• Simon says use an inside voice and face the speaker.
• Stand up (without Simon says).
• Simon says move silently to the group work area.
• Simon says push in your chair and put your hands on your lap.
• Raise your hand (without Simon says).

Routine Reflection Exit Ticket

Name: ____________________ Date: ________________

Reflect on today’s routines and your behavior:

1. Which routine did I do well today?

1. One thing I will improve tomorrow is:

Thank you for reflecting on your learning and helping our classroom routines stay strong!