The Latest Teaching Idea That Worked! Draw Yourself On The First Day Milton Rays, 4th Grade Teacher

"On the first day of school I always play "Draw Yourself" with the kids. It serves as a great ice breaker. I have students draw themselves. I collect all papers and post them at the front of the room. Students the try to identify who was the artist for each picture. The activity also helps you get an instant sense of each students self concept and work ethic."

The Latest Teaching Idea That Worked! The Hello Name Game Linda Newton, Teacher

"The name game is a great way for students to get to know the names of everyone in the class. Just gather the students in a circle. Have students add one word to their first name so that other students can remember it. I start by saying "I'm Mrs. (Fig) Newton". The next student will go and say "Hello, Mrs. (Fig) Newton, I'm Barabara (Bunny)." This repeats and every time a student goes, they have to try to say hello to everyone that went before them. It makes for great fun and works as a wonderful ice breaker."

The Latest Teaching Idea That Worked! Introduction Letter Laurie Christensen, Teacher

"I like to start my year off with a letter of introduction to my students. They like to learn about me (and about you), so I tell them a little bit about myself -- where I live, what I like to do in my spare time, pets, children, anything I think I want to share that they might like to hear. Then I have them write a letter back to me in the same format regarding themselves and sharing some of the same type of information. This helps you to learn a lot about your students in the beginning of the year."