Dear Future Teacher,
One of the first things I was concerned about as a new teacher was my schedule. I wanted to see how other teachers planned their day before I decided how I would plan mine. Of course, every teacher, every class, every year, and sometimes every quarter is different. I found that I have to have it laid out in front of me so that I know what has to be accomplished during the day, but I also have to be flexible if something comes up. And ALWAYS have more planned than you will get to... the leftovers can always be placed in a SUB TUB.
Here is a rough break down of my 2nd grade daily schedule. Some days I have to change things up a bit. Mondays are always a little slower because of new topics, themes, Daily 5, and Guided Math stations. Also I squeeze in writing at some point during the day either during the shared reading time or at the end of the day.
Your school may have certain requirements... my school requires a 90 minute reading block plus 30 minutes phonics instruction. This makes for a very tight squeeze and by the time we get our math in there is little time for much else. But the reading and phonics instruction is so worth it!
Differentiating is best done in small groups as part of guided reading and guided math. Working with small groups, at their instructional levels, on the skills that they need most is so important. However, it is very difficult to manage in your schedule. I read with my lowest guided reading group every day. The middle groups get twice a week, and the highest groups get once per week. Some of the middle and high groups also participate in book discussions throughout the week to hold them more accountable for their reading.
Here is a little more detail about what goes on during each part of the schedule:
Future teacher, you will be SUPER TEACHER... keep your schedule tight, and you'll be teaching right!
Check out what other bloggers are sharing from their schedules and hopefully you will be able to put together your own tight schedule!
I enjoyed your post. I find that guided reading works best just they way you described it. It's a must to read with the lowest group everyday!
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