To decrease distraction and promote cooperation, I use shared supplies in my first grade classroom. I explain the this procedure carefully to parents at Open House. At the beginning of the year, students put their supplies in a team container. I have found that plastic utensil trays work great as a supply container. Scissors, crayons, glue sticks, and pencils all have their own section! I place color code each team of students and each supply tray. Using team supplies decreases theft and loss. This procedure also promotes better listening and involvement because I can easily store the trays away from the team tables during direct instruction. Give it a try!
Contributor: Traci Holder
Email: Traci Holder