Thread: a class with 35 students

Wow that is a LOT of students for one class! Our class sizes get larger every year, but they aren't that bad (yet). I would recommend spending part of the class period in groups. With a class this large there is no way that each student will get individual attention every day. Groups allow you to work with multiple students at one time, and still give them a little individual attention.

That is an awful lot of students for one teacher. I think Brittany's idea about some group time is good, but I would make sure that you mix the capabilities of students so that those who catch on more quickly can help those that don't.

I agree that it is a lot of students, but some of our classrooms have 32, and they may close more schools after this year. At least with the kids being older you may have better luck than if they were say 7 or 8. Your kids ought to be able to do some independent study or group work without too much difficulty. I would make an attempt to plan ahead and be prepared for class though, and I would also have assignments or something for your fast finishers to do. Keeping everyone busy should cut down on too much talking and horsing around.

Originally Posted by Beth09

I agree that it is a lot of students, but some of our classrooms have 32, and they may close more schools after this year. At least with the kids being older you may have better luck than if they were say 7 or 8. Your kids ought to be able to do some independent study or group work without too much difficulty. I would make an attempt to plan ahead and be prepared for class though, and I would also have assignments or something for your fast finishers to do. Keeping everyone busy should cut down on too much talking and horsing around.

dear Beth09
I have some question from you.I'll ba thank if you answer me soon.
1.Did you have the same problem in your class?
2.Can you give me some tips?
3.How should i be in my first session?

Hi Macmillan you need to be very clear about what you expect from your students from the first day. Let them know that learning can be fun, but that rules must be followed in order for that to happen. Make sure they know what the consequences for bad behavior are, and if somone doesn't follow the rules enforce the consequences immediately. 32 is the most I have had and with clear rules and expectations you can make it work even though it is not ideal. Overplan your class days so that if for some reason something takes less time than expected you have something else already prepared. I always have activities for my fast finishers too (file folder games, computer games, creative writing, books etc.) Pinterest has provided me with a wealth of classroom management ideas and activities. Just type in teaching tips, classroom management etc. in the search bar. Hope this helps!