Student-Led Conference Form

In 5th grade, I conduct student-led conferences. Students are present, along with their parent(s). Before the conference I write celebrations and concerns (both academic and behavior). We go over them during the conference and then create goals together for second quarter. I have noticed, over the past few years, student-led conferences does the following:

1. Minimalizes he-said, she-said issues between parents, students, and teachers
2. Allows for an open conversation between parents and students (sometimes this does not happen at home )
3. Encourages students to take ownership of their education
4. Presents a unified front between parents and teachers

Click here to get the free form!

PS - After the conference, I copy the form we filled out together and send it home in their weekly folder. Parents appreciate the documentation and I encourage them to refer back to the goals throughout the quarter.

Academic Choice

What is academic choice and why am I a huge proponent? Let's explore!

We need to assist students in becoming decision makers. In this day and age, we are constantly faced with decisions big and small. From what to eat for breakfast to which major to choose in college. Students need to make decisions that will benefit their education and their life long term. Students also need to take ownership of their work.

Academic Choice is a great way for students to develop these lifelong skills. Currently, students in my language arts class are choosing their word study activities based on their particular learning styles. They are also choosing to complete projects based on Think Dot sheets. They even choose their reading activities (for silent reading and independent reading). Students are gaining independence and are learning to choose methods which meet their learning needs.

To learn more about academic choice click on the links below.

http://www.responsiveclassroom.org/sites/default/files/ac_intro.pdf 

Read an education article on the success and benefits of academic choice:   

http://www.originsonline.org/newsletters/fall-2011-rc/academic-choice-action

http://www.educationworld.com/a_issues/schools/schools017.shtml 

http://www.educationworld.com/a_curr/responsiveclassroom/responsiveclassroom001.shtml

Here is a current Think Dot sheet I am using in my classroom as an enrichment activity:

 

Click here to download!