Hi, I just wanted to say hello as I am new to WBT forums, and also to seek some advice.

I am planning on implementing some aspects of WBT on Tuesday when we return to school from our Easter vacation, and I was just wondering if anyone has any tips for me.

My classroom is one of the noisiest ones in the school anyways (we do a lot of partner/group activities as it is) so I'm not worried about noise level.

TIA

Have you watched the videos yet? If not start with the 1st steps tab at the top of this home page. That helped me get started. From there I watched the videos. I of course started with the videos that showed the grade level I was teaching, then went on to all the others. You now have the option of signing up for the web series, too.

It just helped me a lot to see WBT being used in the classroom. Then it was easy for me to take it back to my room and start in.

How has the rest of your school year gone with WBT?

I started well, but didn't keep up using all the techniques. We still revise the rules everyday - but its not having a huge improvement on behaviour. We use the class/yes and at times I use teach/okay. I think I'll make a fresh start next year and try to stick to it properly.

I used WBT for a full year last year & I can say that, for me, consistency was the key. It was also helpful to me to re-read the '1st Steps' section & watch a few videos before school started just to refresh my memory and get me excited about using WBT again!


Good luck next year!

Tiffany
WBT Intern 2011-2012

Thanks Tiffany.

I think starting it at the beginning of the year will probably be more beneficial. Consistency is something I will just have to work on!!

P6_6 Teacher,
One of the things we do in WBT that may help is to break our lessons into mini lectures, using the 5 step lesson plan format.
As a teacher, we are able to gather information readily regarding whether or not students are grasping the concept being taught. If the students are not "getting it", we back up and reteach, giving more examples and clarifying.
You can find more info about the 5step lesson plan format, as well as a wealth of valuable material in our new "WBT Model Classrooms" ebook.
Using the mini lecture approach helps with behavior because the students are continually engaged...there is no time for them to tune out and daydream!
Consistency, fun, chunking lessons, student engagement...wow! What fun!
Deb Weigel
Co-Director, WBT Model Classrooms

Consistency is definitely the key. Watch the 1st steps videos, read over the free ebooks, and use the forum. Everyone will be more than happy to help in any way thay can.

Susan Floyd
WBT Intern, 2011-2012

Everyone on here has given great tips to start the year. Another thing to use that will help with behavior is the scoreboard! The kids love challenging the teacher and seeing if they can win against you! The best thing is when they win, you still get to choose what they do to celebrate their victory. I always do some type of learning game...mind soccer was among my kiddos' favorites! You definitely have to stick with it and try, try again! Keep on posting too...you will get responses!

Thanks,
Staci Glass
WBT Intern, 2011-2012