In my first year of teaching, I implemented a rule in my school district: if students finished their physics lab early, they could leave and go to lunch. A few months later, my supervisor disagreed with this approach, and I had to break the news to my students. Despite their initial understanding, complaints persisted EVERY, SINGLE, TIME, we had a lab.
This experience taught me that students resist change. My classroom is now characterized by predictability, with established routines and procedures that make everyone feel comfortable and secure. Although occasionally spicing things up, like throwing a surprise party or incorporating a fun physics assignment for holidays, I ensure that any change is positive for the students.
Maintaining a stable classroom with clear expectations is fundamental to my teaching philosophy and contributes to the success of my class. Before each school year, I carefully consider and make minimal changes to uphold this stability. However, if the year isn’t going well and significant changes are necessary, I recommend doing so after January 1st, capitalizing on the new year’s energy for positive transformation. This would be the only time in the school year where I would say it is okay to make some changes in the classroom.
Wishing you a fantastic start to the new year!
