Am I thinking about this correctly?

I ♥ cats · **Am I thinking about this correctly?** 10-31-2009, 04:15 PM

There have been big schedule changes at my school and we are going from flex skills grouping to self-contained. This is after doing flex skills grouping for the entire first quarter. I was doing guided reading groups within my flex skills group for reading, and now I will be starting them with my homeroom kids. However, I know I can't just jump right into groups. I've got to train the kids on procedures first. They've been doing guided reading in other teachers' classes, but I have to get them used to the routine in my room. I'm thinking that will take at least all of next week and that maybe I can get groups going the following week. Admin and the district office both seem to think the process will be much quicker than that and that groups can just magically start. They've stated they will be coming in to observe. Of course I will be glad to explain to them if needed why I am taking the time to teach procedures, but I wanted to be sure that timeline sounds about right to others. It's shorter than I'd like, but I have the feeling that with the district expectations I can't stretch it too much longer than that. This is 2nd grade, BTW.

Mamahen · **I agree** 10-31-2009, 04:41 PM

I agree with your thinking. I teach 2nd and would want to take at least a week to introduce my routines and expectations. I understand they are used to the routines in other classrooms but it is so important that your students know and understand your expectations. I wouldn't hesitate to defend my thinking if I were questioned because you know what you establish now will pay big dividends down the road. Good luck!

Ria · 10-31-2009, 05:05 PM

Our school is looking into doing the flex skills grouping next year. May I ask why you are changing? I am especially curious since you are doing it after one quarter.

Thanks!

I ♥ cats · **Ria -** 10-31-2009, 05:11 PM

Let's just say the decision was not made by teachers.

I am actually happy on one hand that my second graders don't have to move around all day (I think they're too young for that) and that I have more time with them, but on the other hand it is stressful to have to start all over again. I have done flex skills grouping with older kids and it has always worked well.