Saturday, September 17, 2011

Old mind - new things to remember!!!

When school started I had 83 new students in 1st grade to put names together with faces. It is so much easier when there are problems to be able to call a name rather than "Hey you, Boy, Girl, etc" when I need someone to look at me.

I have been working on it. Some are easier than others. Those kids that constantly do something they aren't suppose to - their names are learned quite quickly.

Yesterday I had the time and opportunity to test what I have mastered and what I need to work on. As 1st grade filed in from the lunch line to the tables where they were suppose to sit, I had time. As each one came past me, I looked, said a name and waited for the next student.

When all were seated, I knew I had 10 children that were nameless in my mind. I'm thinking that isn't too bad for an old mind and 83 names to learn. Of course it was 4 weeks ago that I started, so guess I better move a little faster. Then as Jaylen W came through and I looked at him he asked me "Do you remember who I am?" I have had trouble with his name (there are only 4 Jaylen's in 1st grade). When I came up with his name, I felt proud of me.

Also there is that set of twin boys who are so alike that the only way I know who they are is if they tell me who their teacher is. Occasionally when I try to put a name to their face, I will say both names and most always they will tell me who they are. But - - - they are learning I can't tell them apart and they are beginning to use it against me - so I must learn and fast -is it Nathan or Noah?

Knowing who everyone is makes this busy year at school
just a little easier. So my new motto is - -

1 comment:

The Going Blog said...

I don't know how you guys do it. I think I would be horrible at remembering their names. Did you ever want to be a teacher as a kid? You are an awesome IA! :-)