Figuring out what grade is the right one

[RazzleDazzle]

This is my 2nd year teaching 5th grade and I really know that it's not the right grade for me. I student taught 3rd and did more of my subbing in the lower grades and I know that is where I should be at and will try for a transfer next year. I am just wondering what I could do to figure out if it is really 3rd or 1st or 2nd? :idontknow:

Thanks.

[irish223]

If you're in a K-5 building, you could visit the classrooms of some of your colleagues in the lower grades during your plan times or lunch.

You might also consider how independent you would like your students to be. Third graders are generally much more independent than first graders.

Also, consider which curriculum you would prefer to teach.

[Just ducky]

I agree with Irish on the curriculum. I love fourth grade because of the topics that I get to teach. I also like the independence that is developing in their habits.
If possible, spend some time around the different age groups. I was fortunate that I subbed in every level. Could you tutor or fill a role in some position working with the other grades and curriculums?

[landreth2007]

I have taught every grade from K-6 and I liked each one for different reasons. For me there isn't just one "right" grade, they're all great! I agree with the other posters. You should visit other classrooms and ask other teachers what they enjoy and dislike about their current position. The independance issue is a big one to consider. You may also want to keep in mind how much pressure is put on each grade level. I quit kindergarten because our district was putting too much stress on the students (another story). Good luck with your decision.

[teacher5]

I have taught 3rd, 4th, and 5th grade during my 33+ years. Although I loved teaching third grade because they were still excited about learning new things and really not babies any more, I love teaching 5th grade even more. It was a bit of a fright going from third to fifth, and it took me a couple of years to realize these kids are capable of doing more than third graders. I can assign them tasks I did when I taught third grade. They are much more independent and capable. Don't be afraid to assign them classroom management tasks, but be sure you are very clear and/or model what you want them to do. Fifth graders will also test the waters. But with a clear and CONSISTENT behavior/reward system, I found them to stay on task and behave appropriately a large percentage of the time. Also, in both grades, I had to alert parents of the need to monitor their child's academic progress. You get to know which ones can and which ones can't. The same is true when you have to call home for behaviorial problems. Often, I bring the student to the phone with me and let them get on and tell the parent why the call is being made. Don't hang up until there is a plan in place, and a date for a follow up phone call. Whatever grade you work in, you need to be planned, the kids must be clear on expectations, and you behaviorial management system must be consistent. Don't give up on 5th grade just yet. Rework your plan and rethink your vision on what the kids are actually capable of doing. Good luck!

[luvs2learn]

Where on Long Island do you teach? I'm originally from Farmingdale (live in FLA now):waving:. I'm an education major (Math 6-12), and hoping, maybe to move back if I can get myself a job.

Kris

[Boxcar]

I'm also trying to pin down which is the right age group for me. I recently worked with a group of fives and enjoyed it. I'd not expected to have so much fun.

I've definetly eliminated 1st and 2nd grades as not for me. I don't want to deal with all the standards, and I love teaching through play.

I think visiting the rooms of others is a good idea. You might also consider doing some afternoon post-care with children in those specific age groups. That would help you figure out what children of these ages can and cannot do.