1,2,3 Art (First Day of School)

Author: Paula Hrbacek

Lesson Plan:

Middle School students are just learning how to form opinions, and appreciate the opportunity to express them constructively. A 1,2,3 questionnaire can be used in the first art class to get input from the students, and to make them feel appreciated.

When I did this exercise, I told them not to sign their name, and I would grade it as handed in/not handed in only. I walked from desk to desk to collect the papers and mark it as handed in. While I was at it, I made a quick crib note in the grade book about a physical trait that made them look different than the other students; John, black hair, Karla, Asian, etc. I took a moment with each student to try to match their name and face. No teacher can learn all of the names in one day, but this is a good start.

Some of the students were shocked that I would ask for their opinion instead of just telling them how it was going to be. Some asked me if this was for real, and I assured them that I really wanted to know. Once they got the idea that they were valued and respected, they were easier to teach and better behaved. As a new teacher, this gave me an idea of what they already knew, and what I didn’t have to go over again. It also gave me an idea of what would keep them engaged, and what would bore them to tears.

1,2,3 Art

Grade:

Answer the questions in complete sentences. Explain each item as much as you can.

1. One thing I don’t like to do in art class.

2. Two things I learned last year in art class.

3. Three things I would like to learn this year in art class.

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