Have pupils read silently after they put away their belongings. You can write a question on the board for them to answer in a journal, such as "Describe your favorite character." Alternatively, create index cards with a variety of questions that pupils can choose from each day. Complete attendance, collect forms and money, and check homework during this quiet time. You may also wish to read or conference with a pupil each day.
Fill plastic bins with a variety of cross-curricular activities for pupils to complete. Make sure that the activities are easy to understand and that the bins contain everything pupils need. For example, place vocabulary cards in a bin with instructions to sort the words into parts of speech. Place multiplication flash cards in a bin for pupils to use with partners. Cut out pictures from magazines and instruct pupils to choose pictures about which to write descriptive paragraphs.
Use the beginning of the day to work on the current math unit or to review previously taught math concepts. Write a word problem on the board and have pupils complete the problem in a notebook. Discuss various problem-solving methods that pupils used. Alternatively, write a series of math questions on the board for pupils to complete. These can include addition, subtraction, multiplication and division questions.
Have younger pupils sit on the carpet after putting away their belongings. Conduct daily calendar activities. This includes putting up the new date, counting the days and reviewing the days of the week and months of the year. You can also discuss special days such as birthdays and holidays. Talk about the season, the weather and how to dress appropriately. Review the schedule for the day.