Have you ever faced changing grade levels and are unsure of how to prepare? You might initially be filled with panic, dread, worry, or even excitement.
But switching to a brand new grade level can be daunting! That’s why I gathered tips from my Facebook group of elementary teachers and my email list and got the best advice for you from teachers who have been there!
1. Research Student Development
Remember child development classes from college? It’s a good time to freshen up on the information you learned.
Each age brings along with it different challenges. By taking some time to research child development, you’ll be prepared for what to expect when you are changing to a new grade level.
This is especially true if you are making a big leap!
2. Observe Another Teacher
If you find out that you are moving to a new grade level before the school year ends, try to arrange some time to observe another teacher who currently teaches that grade.
If school is already out, or you don’t have the opportunity to observe, then look up teachers on YouTube. You’d be surprised how many lessons and day-in-the-life videos you can find for various grade levels.
3. Find Your Community
One of the most common recommendations that teachers gave in the survey about switching grade levels is to meet with your team. They recommend trying to find some time over the summer to get together and talk about the new grade level.
Another way to find your new grade-level community is by finding teacher blogs and subscribing to their email lists. Many teachers write about several grade levels, so it would be helpful to get on some email lists. Throughout the year, you’ll get useful blog posts and lesson ideas!
4. Study Your New Standards
This is very important! Spend time getting familiar with your new grade level’s standards. I recommend checking the standards for the grade level before to see what students should already know coming in and then reading the standards that come after to give you an idea of where they will be headed after their time with you. Knowing the before and after for your grade level’s standards can also help you as you differentiate your instruction throughout the school year.
5. Don’t Try to Reinvent the Wheel
Many teachers gave this advice. You won’t be an expert in your first year in a new grade level. Instead, take the time to familiarize yourself with the new grade. Learn from others. Get lesson plan ideas from other people. Let your teammates with experience lead the way. You can make changes and adjustments next year.
6. Be Open-Minded and Accept Change
Attitude is everything. Being open-minded and accepting of change is very important. You might not be happy about your grade level switch. You might feel frustrated, hurt, or even angry about it. But it’s important to remember that there are twenty-something students who are coming to you and want to have a great year. Give them your best and try to enjoy the ride.
I hope these tips help you out and I hope you have a wonderful experience in your new grade level!
For resources for your new grade level check out my TpT store! I’ve got resources for K-5!
Moving to a new classroom? Get tips for making it a stress-free experience!
