This is an activity to use at the beginning of the day as students arrive. Conduct a "Getting to Know You" activity in one of two ways. Give each child a list of ten questions which ask for such information as birthdays, favorite foods, and favorite things to do. Alternatively, have each student draw a picture that tells something about himself. Have the students share their answers or pictures with the class.
The Name Game is an effective way to help children who do not yet know their classmates. It can also help you remember names. Have the students sit in a circle. Start the game by choosing a word that describes you and uses the first letter of your last name. For example, if your name is Mrs. Lisk and your favorite flower is a lily, say "Mrs. Lily Lisk." Have each student come up with a combination using her first name and a descriptive word. For added fun after the activity, challenge the students to recall as many names as possible by writing a list.
Goal setting is a skill that is important for students to learn because it helps them learn how to achieve success. In this activity,ask each student to come up with a list of three goals that he would like to master by the end of his third grade year. Have each child illustrate his goals. Hang the lists of goals on a bulletin board in your classroom.
Your third grade students are already likely familiar with the Pledge of Allegiance. Help them build on their knowledge by developing a classroom pledge for the students to say and follow throughout the year. Facilitate a discussion among your students and help them brainstorm what to include in their pledge. The students can pledge, for example, to be kind and to follow the school rules. Display the pledge in the classroom and have students recite it at the beginning of each day to set a positive attitude in the classroom.