As I prep for today's parent conferences, I am struck by the well-known notion that attention matters. Students and our own children look forward to those times when they have your undivided or small group attention. They enjoy and profit from that time at the table to share their view point, ask questions and learn a challenging skill, concept or knowledge point in a strategic way.
The challenge for teachers and parents is to carve out the time to give each student or child the targeted, responsive attention they need--to move from the one-size-fits-all classroom endeavor to that small-group or individual time.
Late winter/spring is that time of year when you know students well. Many standards-points have been introduced to the entire class. There's the time and knowledge to build in more small-group and individual attention for specific goals and challenges. Also the use of tailored on-line programs, independent reading and class projects can meet the needs of other students while you pull those small groups and individuals to shore up skill and provide enrichment.
I also want to re-look at the schedule to see where I can build in small group and individual attention time with the many volunteers and assistants that come to the classroom each week. There's always room for finesse and growth in a school program, and finding the time for greater individual and small group attention is one goal I have in that regard.
