Noise is a HUGE problem in elementary classrooms, where (at least in the US) students spend most of the day rotating in small groups through "centers." One small group at a time works with the teacher, but the others are usually supposed to be working independently. Aside from the fact that students who are working independently are often not doing anything particularly meaningful--or aren't even doing whatever task they're supposed to--the resulting noise level can really interfere with learning.
As with noise, small group work has its place, but it shouldn't be the way kids spend the bulk of the day.
Completely. Agree. It’s a huge issue that is seen as part of the unquestioned status quo…. Thanks for reposting your piece!
Noise is a HUGE problem in elementary classrooms, where (at least in the US) students spend most of the day rotating in small groups through "centers." One small group at a time works with the teacher, but the others are usually supposed to be working independently. Aside from the fact that students who are working independently are often not doing anything particularly meaningful--or aren't even doing whatever task they're supposed to--the resulting noise level can really interfere with learning.
As with noise, small group work has its place, but it shouldn't be the way kids spend the bulk of the day.
I wrote about that a couple of years ago here:
https://nataliewexler.substack.com/p/elementary-classroom-are-too-noisy
One of my classroom rules is: The default is always "SILENCE". The other is "Make your mobile phones invisible."
Would be great to hear how you establish these norms, for teacher who might be interested to try
May I share this pos here? I wrote about how I plan ahead for classroom management.
https://umesko.substack.com/p/classroom-management-is-the-last?utm_source=publication-search
Awesome! Thank you