Customer Reviews

The First Days of School: How to Be an Effective Teacher

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I do not think that a lot of what is said in this book is "common sense", as some other reviewers have stated. There is nothing "common sense" about organizing a grade book or effectively introducing a classroom management system into your classroom - these are things that are somewhat esoteric to the newbie and not the things that are taught in most degree programs.
Granted, I do not need to be taught or told to dress professionally - but look at the way some teachers DO dress today - apparently it is not "common sense" for all.
While I would not agree with all his methods (some of his classroom management techniques, though well meant, could be hurtful to sensitive students) and some of his statements of effectiveness sometimes seem to give the reader the impression that if you do "A", "B" will automatically happen (and it doesn't, of course - all students and classes have their own dynamics - there is no "one-size-fits-all") his philosophy and objectives are clearly explained and discussed. He has a method which he stands by and which has been effective for him and countless others. Since I have read the book I have implemented some strategies into my classroom and seen great results.
His intention is to inspire teachers to be lifelong professional educators and to continue to strive for excellence. He values student success and provides a detailed strategy for teachers that may be "stuck in a rut" or may be new to the profession. He also provides information of interesting results from research studies in the area of teacher/student instruction.
Again, while I can not totally agree with everything in the book, it is, by far, the most valuable resource I have seen for new teachers and for teachers that want to continue to master their profession. To say that it is all "common sense" and a "waste of time" is, I think, missing the entire point of the book - when it comes to becoming a better educator, there is no time wasted in trying new techniques and broadening your scope of knowledge.

This book is incredible! I am continuously referring back to it. It has wonderful ideas from classroom rules to classroom management to testing and evaluation. The author lists great stories of teachers who have made good decisions and those who did not and have learned from it. I believe many people consider this book for first-year teachers, but it has definately been used well beyond my first year. It certainly is worth the reading. I encourage all teachers to read this

This book gives you practical, step by step instruction for running a highly structured and successful classroom that students will not only function but enjoy!

After all the college courses, state tests, sending out resumes and job interviews, the realization that REAL students will be walking in your classroom soon, becomes a reality. This book can help prepare the novice, as well as the experienced, teacher for that first day of school.

As stated, this book was written for teachers by teachers. From that all important first day to creating positive expectations in the students, classroom management,tips for preventing burn-out and how to be a success in this incredible profession, suggestions will be provided in these pages.

Recommended for summer reading as well as reading during the school year.

I am a veteran teacher of 13 years. I have used quite a bit of Wongs techniques after I went to his workshop about 9 years ago. Now I have the book to guide me so I can make sure I use all of his techniques. For those that have been "Wonging It" already, you may want the book because some of his techniques have been updated from several years ago. One idea he had was to display your high school diploma, college diploma, family pictures, any awards you have received, etc. in one area so the kids will know that you are a real person and not just a teacher

I have never had problems ordering stuff online but I never received my book. I may not have paid a lot for it but It is still bad business to not receive my product.