First+Day+Strategies+for+Faculty

Whether you are new to teaching or a seasoned faculty member, the first class of the semester is an opportunity to set the tone and expectations for your class. This page has some suggestions, quick tips and strategies to help you set a positive tone for yourself and your students from the very first class meeting.

There are many ways to begin your class on the right foot. This presentation contains some best practices on how to start your class the first day and some strategies on building community, setting expectations and creating a strong first class to start your semester off right.
 * First Day Strategies Interactive Presentation**

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//For some students, even in the Spring, YOURS may be their FIRST college course.// //Clear directions, a positive environment and patience can go a long way.//


 * Before the First Class:**


 * 1) Get your Faculty ID/keycard and parking pass from Security located in the lobby of the RCF building
 * 2) Sign up for Mobile Alerts: __Click here to sign up.__
 * 3) Submit your syllabus to your division office manager.
 * 4) View Your Classroom – Take a look at your classroom and the equipment you have available prior to the first day: __Click here to view online.__
 * 5) Test your key card/ID to make sure you can open your classroom door. Contact your division office for assistance.
 * 6) Request a Classroom Orientation: Email imfacultylab@howardcc.edu.


 * Before Students Arrive:**


 * 1) Set up the class content/projection/seating prior to class
 * 2) Write your name on the board and some key topics/items you will be doing in class that day.
 * 3) Write a provoking question/activity on the board for students to start responding to as soon as they enter.


 * As Students Arrive: **
 * 1) Greet each student as they enter the room. Make eye contact and introduce yourself.
 * 2) On the First Day: Consider handing out index cards to collect some information about each student. (This will also help you take attendance). You might want to ask them to jot down what name they would like you to call them; what concerns they have about this class; if there is something about them that you should know (repeating the class; very familiar with the subject matter, etc.) **Write any questions on the whiteboard so students may refer to them and so you do not have to pause to explain too much with every new arrival.**


 * Plan for late arrivals (ideas): **

•First five - ten minutes of class may be chaotic so plan accordingly. •Make sure that students are in the RIGHT room/class. Write the name/section number of the course, room number and your name on the whiteboard before class begins. •Pair students for introductions //You can start class on-time with introductions even as new students are entering the room.// •Take attendance via index cards which students complete and turn in to you. //THIS is an opportunity for you to allow students to tell you WHAT NAME they would to be like to be called.// •Write a provocative entrance question for them to work on at the start of class


 * Begin Your Class: **

• ** Plan a strong opening statement/example/introduction (ideas) ** •Raise a question or provide a demonstration •Share a story •Conduct a poll •Create an activity connected to your syllabus •Use the whiteboards to collect information about your students and then connect it to your topic


 * Administrative Tasks During Class (be sure to review all administrative responsibilities with your division: **

Consider attaching a cover letter to the syllabus which provides more informal information about you, the course and why you are so interested in teaching it. //This contributes to setting a tone for the course and allows you to share your enthusiasm about the course.//
 * 1) Distribute your syllabus, which is your class contract and schedule.

2. Ask students who have brought you accommodation letters to see you after class or during office hours to discuss any needed accommodations.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES: