Entry 7

Today was a prep day for the standardized state test. We handed out packets with sample math questions to the class.

The desks were setup like they will be for test day. The students had to work the math problems with no assistance from us.

Ms. L. had to go downstairs to get information for the exam on Wed. I was left with the class alone. As usually happens, the class started acting up as soon as Ms. L. left the room. It's aggravating when this happens. It sometimes feels like I'm not even there. I can keep small groups of the class together, but other pockets start acting up. I get them settled and then another group starts. When I try to address the class as a whole, they all start talking and acting up. I saw a teacher in the hallway I really respect and whom the students really listen too. I asked her to come in and speak with the students for me. She's wonderful and I love to watch her work with the students. The first thing she did was turn the lights off and ask the students to put their heads down. It only took seconds for them to comply. Then she said, "Good morning class.". They all responded, "Good morning Ms. V.". She then talked with them about being 5th graders and not needing to be told how to control themselves; that they should know how to behave and should be ashamed of their behavior. She talked to them about how they should listen to me; that Ms. L. should be able to leave the room and expect good behavior from them. After Ms. V. left, the students were fine, but it wasn't long before another staff person came in and stayed with me until Ms. L. came back.

It's not clear to me why the students don't respect my authority, but it is something I want to work on. I want to e.arn their respect.