Laura Brown: December Blog Post: You Only Have So Much Time

      The question of time has always been important to me, even as a child growing up. I like knowing if I am going to have enough time to do whatever task I want to do or told to do. When it comes to students' learning the factor of time is particularly important. Teachers need to make sure they are spending their time in the classroom creating wonderful learning experiences for their students. The big question for most teachers is: Where can we find the time to create these very important and vast learning experiences? 

      One thing teachers can do to make the most of their time in the classroom is to trust their own experiences and plan well. Routman states that teachers need to "exercise common sense and good judgement" when planning and creating lessons. Another skill that teachers can learn to make the most of their time is to keep work meaningful and simple. The work that students are asked to do needs to be something that can be connected to their own life and something of value. 

      Making every minute count in the classroom is very important for maximum learning for students. This is particularly important when it comes to reading. Routman states that if students "need to process a great deal of text to become great readers, then they must spend most of reading time reading connected texts." This way, the teacher is ensuring that the students are making every minute count. The resources around the classroom are another way to not waste precious time in the classroom. It is very important to make student resources accessible. If the students have to hunt for a certain book or other resource, the student is wasting time that can be spent learning. 

      Lastly, the teachers themselves have to make time in their already busy schedules for professional development and personal/professional reading. Making sure you as a teacher is in the know of the most effective teaching and learning practices will not only create better learning experiences for the students, but it will also make every minute count in the classroom. It is always been said that if teachers show their excitement and love for learning and reading, the students will follow that positive outlook.