Write a Poem (ages 5-11)
Get children to think about and brainstorm things that remind them of a time e.g January. Then write a two-verse poem, verse one starting with the words “Outside in January….” followed by several descriptive sentences, and the second verse starting “Inside in January…” and followed by more sentences.
More able children can try and link their lines between verses to show contrast, e.g. (outside in January) trees are bare and branches thin/animals search for food in the cold and in the second verse (inside in January) trees are laden with lights/people are getting ready for new year etc.
Start the day with a Joke (ages 5-11)
It’s always good to start off the school day on the right note. So why not start it off in a fun manner?
Telling jokes at the beginning of the school day will get your class out of the “morning look” and into a learning mode.
Just read a couple of jokes each morning and even at the end of the school day, or maybe even if you have time to spare. The kids will really enjoy it!
The children could also share any jokes that they know.
Heads Down, Thumbs up (ages 5-11)
Two children are chosen to stand up and be the elves or fairies. All the others put their heads down on their desks with their eyes closed and thumbs sticking up. The two elves must then creep around the desks and gently touch one person each on the thumb. Everyone is then told to open their eyes and the children who were touched stand up and try to guess which elf touched them. If they get it right the children swap places if not the children have another go. This game is good to use for settling a class down after after a busy day and it improves their listening skills. Theme the character with your class topic or time of year.
You can find these ideas and lots more ideas to use in your classroom at www.teachingideas.co.uk
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