[smileyta]

I teach three 6th grade cores of social studies and science. I haven't taught it in 12 years, and when I did it was self contained. I am figuring things out day by day. My question is what do you do with early finishers? We are working on 2 projects right now so everyone is at a different spot. Any suggestions? This was my first project and I learned so much. I now know what I can expect from them, how detailed I need to be on expectations and directions, and a better idea on classroom management. I came from 2nd grade where I knew the curriculum like the back of my hand. Eventually I will figure this out, but if there is some quick ideas for early finishers I would love to hear

[lifelearner]

Yes, early finishers are also tough for me. I try to set a precedent at the beginning of the year that anyone who finishes early should check their work. Also, the early finishers can help other students complete the activity or assignment. Perhaps there is a chore you can have them complete for you. I know this may not be the ideal answer to early finishers because I struggle with this myself. I know of other teachers who make a poster at the beginning of the year with things students can do when they have completed their classwork. Reading, writing etc. But most teachers agree that early finishers cannot just sit and do nothing.

[nhmtns]

I have some eager students who work very quickly. When they finish their regular assignments and check their work for errors, they have the option of completing challenge tasks that I keep at my desk. In SS for example, I use sheets that give hints about specific landmarks somewhere in the world. Using resources such as computers or reference books, students try to identify the names and locations of the landmarks. These students are usually the more motivated ones and they really love challenging themselves and working independently.

[purplealum]

I have a challenge board in my room for early finishers. It's a tic-tac-toe board with 9 different challenges on it that I rotate from time to time. Students must complete 3 (in a row for a tic-tac-toe) challenges and turn them in for a free 100. I teach math, but I put journal prompts and life skills activities on there too. The kids like it!