I have a class of thirty-five students. When I give them class assignments some of my students finish them much earlier than other students.  The ones who finish early tend to disturb the ones who are still trying to complete their work.  What tasks can I make the students who finish early undertake so that the learning process can continue for everyone? (Teacher)

There will always be students who finish work before others, and often such students disturb others because they are bored. It’s always a great idea to talk with your class about what they can do if and when they complete their work early before behavior becomes an issue. Here are a few early-finisher activities you can pick depending on your grade level:

  • They can play a game from a center. This only works if the children are familiar with these academic games, which you introduce at some point while introducing a certain concept.
  • They may help other students, especially those who have been absent. This becomes a validation to the early-finisher. Children should be modeled how to teach to avoid just providing answers.
  • Provide bonus work for an opportunity to earn extra credit.
  • Have interesting books available for fast-finishers to read.

  • How important is it to attend the Parent Teacher Conference? What are the important questions to ask the teacher about the child? (Parent)

Kids and teens do better in school when parents are involved in their academic lives. Attending Parent Teacher Conferences is a way to be involved and help your child succeed. Here are a few tips to make the best of the conferences:

  • Check in with your child how he or she is doing in school. Review any recent projects, tests, quizzes, student copy, progress report card, and take a note of any questions or concerns you may have.
  • Ask your child if there are any questions or issues your child wants you to discuss with the teacher.
  •  Write down a few things to share with the teacher -- your child’s interests, favorite subjects -- to help the teacher know your child better.
  •  Ask focused questions such as “What can I do to support (literacy, mathematics, handwriting) in my home?” or “What are the common barriers you see to my child’s academic progress?” to the teacher to enhance your understanding about your child’s learning and development so you can support your child appropriately.

    I am a shy person. I do not talk or participate much in class. Though I understand the materials taught in the class, most of my teachers complain that because I do not partake in class discussions they are unsure about my level of understanding of the subject. How do I overcome my shyness and increase my participation in class activities? (Student)

First of all you need to know that there are different personality types and there is nothing wrong with being “shy.” In fact many people prefer to sit quietly, listen to what everyone says, and think deeply about the subject at hand. However, in certain situations such as for academic and professional success, it is important to let your voice be heard. Your participation is a way for you to develop a stronger relationship with your fellow students, and your teachers and in many cases teachers take it as an indicator of your interest and understanding in the class. Here are a few tips to help you develop your classroom interaction skills:

  • Tell your teachers privately or have your parents tell your teachers that you are working on developing classroom interaction skills. This will ensure that the teacher is more understanding and supporting of your efforts.
  • Set weekly and daily goals that are attainable. Start by simply telling yourself that you will start by interacting with one new person in the classroom. Even saying a hello is a start! Don’t forget to set up rewards for yourself for reaching your goals. This will help motivate you.
  •  You can also go to the class prepared with a few questions or thoughts to share about the topic at hand.
  • Slowly increase the frequency of your goal.