Read 180 Summer Institute - First Impressions Count! Move Beyond Rules and Procedures

Presenters: Cathleen Mattia, Agatha Taylor

Used the "Numbered Heads" routine as an opener. Demonstrated it as a way to hold all students accountable for discussion.

Agatha used a pyramid model to structure her presentation: Community building; positive tone; motivation; buy-in; teaching and learning

Community building used a theme to create a classroom community structure:

• Theme tells a story
• The students are active participants in developing the theme.

Theme example: a ship

1. Students are given a ticket and welcomed aboard as they enter the room the first time
2. The ship becomes the symbol of the environment and the community
3. A passenger analogy is used to establish relationship and create motivation
4. The destination represents the goals and successes

Setting a positive tone

1. Environment must be warm and inviting (She plays soothing music as students enter the room on the very first day.
2. Safe environment. Make it clear that no put-downs are ever allowed. The students feel that they can take risks with learning.
3. She used a lifeguard metapho