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Tuesday, January 12, 2016

"Super Star Kindergarten Friend" Anchor Chart

At the beginning of the school year, I talk tirelessly with my class about the expectations for Kindergarteners.  Our classroom has three main expectations -- BE SAFE, BE RESPECTFUL, BE RESPONSIBLE.  Of course, underneath each of those is a list of specifics like using walking feet, speaking kindly, putting their things away, doing their best work, etc.  We still talk about our classroom expectations often, even 70+ days into the school year, but a while ago I felt like I could also put language to what my students can do to go above and beyond in the behavior department.  If the things we first discussed early in the school year made them meet the behavior expectations for Kindergarten, what behaviors would push them beyond and allow them to EXCEED expectations?

I put together this anchor chart.
**Sidenote.....Please excuse the "Motion Words" chart behind the "SUPER STAR Behaviors" chart.  Totally didn't realize it was there until after I took these photos... Ooops! ;)
 I work so hard every year to get my students to say "Good morning" to me when they enter the classroom each day.  I wait at the door to greet them each morning, and I am always shocked by how few children look at me and wish me a good morning, even if I say it first!  I am determined every year to make this a habit for my students.  It's January, and most students have gotten it.  It's definitely SUPER STAR behavior in my book!  
Eye contact, compliments and other encouraging words, doing the right thing without being asked or when no one else is looking, being a leader with their words and actions...  These things make Kindergarten SUPER STARS!
 My students know what is expected of them in the classroom, so now THIS is the list we review.  I want them to know what to do to go above and beyond.  Specifics.  
 This has been wonderful for my go-getter students who are always looking for ways to rise above and find new ways to challenge themselves.  Giving them the specific actions has helped them to know exactly what they can do to stand out in this area.

So basic, and yet so helpful!  Holding students to high expectations and giving them the tools to be SUPER STARS in the way they speak and act.