Unnecessary Talking
Okay... so it was really hard to think of something for the letter U! Then I finally thought of "Unnecessary Talking". Probably one of the most difficult shifts in thinking for students to get used to coming into third grade is the idea that they don't get to chat / visit as much in the intermediate grades as they did in the primary grades. We work very hard to promote a quiet working environment so that students can concentrate on classwork, and more importantly, concentrate on getting good grades! That is very difficult for some students to do when there is a constant buzz from chatter in the room. Students still get plenty of opportunities to talk.... during small group and/or partner activities, chat breaks, and recess. But they also need to understand that third grade involves a lot more independent work time where students benefit the most from a QUIET environment. Check in with your child from time to time to see if he/she is getting check marks for unnecessary talking in class. If so, work with your child to brainstorm a list of 3 things he/she can do to help curb talking in class. If not, celebrate with your child for doing his/her part in helping to create a nice working environment for everyone!