Circle time, also called group time.
Much has been written of Circle Time in recent years, and as a
teaching strategy it has seen increased use in Nursery, Kindergarten and
Primary schools. Circle time is an important daily activity in all the key
stages. Circle time can help
children to enjoy learning. Circle Time is a teaching strategy which
allows the teacher to explore issues of concern. Also, it allows children to
explore and address issues which concern them. Circle time provides a great
opportunity to show children how to behave towards others.
Circle Time affords the opportunity for the teacher to
communicate about issues which promote self-esteem and positive behaviour.
It helps utilize that time of togetherness to find a common
interest, spark curiosity and ignite the passion of learning.
It is platform for every child to voice his/her thoughts &
ideas about issues pertaining to classroom – whether about social interactions
or about learning.
Circle time should not be just a few bells and 'the wheels on
the bus'.
RULES:
· Sitting arrangement
in a circle, either on the floor or on chairs
 |
| Circle Time Arrangement |
· A warm-up
activity to relax the children to open and close sessions.
· Every children the
circle should be an equal part of the group where each one’s thoughts, ideas
and conversations matter and are respected.
· Make sure you have a good
circle and everyone can see you. Teacher can pass a ball around and the person
holding it can speak
· Hands up or Thumbs up if
they want to speak
·
Teach the 5 skills
Looking, Listening, Speaking, Thinking, Concentration
·
It should be carefully planned time.
·
Activities should be
planned carefully.
· Teacher need to lower her voice to create a sense
of calm.
· Teacher must
not interrupt if a child is using the speaking object to talk.
· Focus on
: Laugh
with others but never at others
·
A smile should be passed
around the circle.
· Reward for
good behaviour - through use of praise, stickers, stars etc.
Activities For
circle time
· Discussion
about classroom rules.
· Talk
about values and social skills and golden rules
· Discussions about
good touch and bad touch.
· Games to develop
trust and help children to work together.
· Activities to improve
children’s listening skills, drama , sharing ideas.
