Clean-Up Monitors

Posted on 26. Jun, 2011 by in All Posts, Clean-up and Transition, Clssrm Mgmt, Positive Reinforcement

Clean-up Numbers

I love my Clean-Up Map, but what I don’t love is keeping track of the tables who cleaned up adequately and efficiently (I have a lot of other things going on!). That’s why I created a system of Clean-Up Map Monitors.  Each class period I appoint a team of two students to monitor the classroom tables for quick and thorough clean-up.  The kids love this job (and take it very seriously) so I rotate the students each class period and keep track by marking on a class list. At the end of class the clean-up monitors are manned with giant numbers attached to dowel rods and distribute them based on the following:

  • All students are sitting at their table silently.
  • Table meets Clean-Up Monitor cleanliness expectations (Students know what needs to be cleaned by referring to the Clean-Up Map).

Important details to keep things running smoothly:

  • Table leaders (also known as helping hands) get to hold the clean-up number when distributed.
  • If you complain about anything, your table lines up last.
  • Clean-Up Monitors always get to line up first.
  • Students are dismissed to line based on the number their table was awarded.

I find that this system works well with 3rd grade and up.  In second grade I act as the clean-up monitor to train the kids on my expectations.

Download the clean up numbers for use in your classroom.

Prevention and Attention

Posted on 16. Oct, 2008 by in All Posts, Clssrm Mgmt, Organization and Preparation

The elementary art room can get overwhelming with materials, paperwork and demanding students. Learn how to obtain student attention and keep it focused. Get organized and get your students into a routine with our “Prevention and Attention” tip sheet.

Some of the helpful tips include:

  • Use a binder to store important information containing monthly planning sheets, class lists, schedule, and notes.
  • Keep a container for pencils to be sharpened. (Avoids having kids distracted by pencil sharpening.) Have any student that needs to serve recess with you sharpen pencils.
  • Do not begin giving directions until ALL children are looking at you.
  • Use kinesthetic (movement) learning – show/have students practice directions in addition to verbal. Have children move often, avoid long periods of sitting.
  • For our complete Prevention and Attention tip sheet, click here.