Teach Like a Champion Technique 33 - On Your Mark

Summary

The video script emphasizes the importance of preparation in the classroom, likening it to the readiness required in sports. It suggests teachers should establish a clear, finite list of materials students need at the start of class, such as papers, a clear desk, a sharp pencil, and homework. The script recommends being explicit about these requirements and having a small, appropriate consequence for students who are unprepared. It also highlights the significance of making homework a routine part of class preparation, with a clear expectation for its submission and a system in place to check for completeness.

Takeaways

• 🏁 'On your mark' is a technique to prepare students before class begins, similar to athletes preparing before a race.
• 🎒 Students should have a clear and finite list of materials needed at the start of class, not exceeding five items.
• 📚 The teacher should be explicit about what students need to have ready, such as papers, a clear desk, and a sharpened pencil.
• 🏫 The classroom should have a routine where students are expected to be prepared with materials like homework in a specific place on their desk.
• ⏰ It's crucial to be specific about when students need to have everything ready to avoid arguments and ensure accountability.
• 👟 The 'on your mark' technique should be a consistent routine that students can rely on and remember easily.
• 📉 Having a small and appropriate consequence for not being prepared helps maintain the importance of being ready and focused.
• 🏅 Recognizing the need for materials in advance is part of the preparation process, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning tools.
• 📝 Homework is a critical part of student responsibility and should be integrated into the class routine for submission and checking.
• 👩‍🏫 Teachers play a vital role in setting clear expectations and consequences, which helps students understand the importance of being prepared.

Q & A

What is the significance of the Swiss flag mentioned in the script?

The Swiss flag is used metaphorically to highlight the importance of being prepared and starting on a strong footing, just as the Swiss are known for their precision and readiness.

What does the coach's approach to sports preparation teach about classroom readiness?

The coach's approach emphasizes that just as athletes must be ready with their equipment before starting practice, students should be prepared with their materials before class begins.

What is the 'on your mark' technique mentioned in the script?

The 'on your mark' technique is a method to show students how to prepare before class begins by having them have their materials ready, similar to athletes being ready at the starting line.

Why is it important for students to have a clear and finite list of what they need to start class?

A clear and finite list helps students understand exactly what is expected of them, reduces confusion, and sets a standard for classroom readiness.

What are the four specific items students should have ready at the start of class according to the script?

Students should have papers out, a clear desk, a sharp pencil, and homework in the top right hand of their desk.

How can teachers ensure that students are held accountable for being prepared?

Teachers can ensure accountability by being specific about when students need to have everything ready and by having a small, appropriate consequence for not being prepared.

What is the purpose of having a small and appropriate consequence for students who are not prepared?

The purpose is to encourage students to take responsibility for their preparation and to maintain a disciplined classroom environment without being overly punitive.

Why is it crucial for students to recognize in advance that they need certain materials?

Recognizing the need for materials in advance allows students to take proactive steps to ensure they are prepared, avoiding last-minute scrambles or lack of necessary tools.

How does the script suggest handling homework as part of the classroom routine?

Homework should be turned in and checked for completeness at the start of class, making it an integral part of the routine to be ready for the day.

What is the role of the teacher in ensuring students have the materials they need for class?

The teacher's role is to be clear about what materials are needed, provide a timeframe for students to gather them, and enforce a routine that includes consequences for not having the necessary materials.