What to do on the first day of substitute teaching?

On your first day as a substitute teacher, arrive early to meet staff, get oriented, and review plans, then confidently introduce yourself and set clear expectations (name on board, rules) to establish control, and focus on following the provided lesson plans while having quick filler activities ready, leaving a detailed note for the regular teacher at the end.

How to prepare for the first day of subbing?

Greet students by door. Introduce yourself and tell them sorry if things are a little different. Pick a special helper to ask questions, students love to help you out and teach you how to do things in their classroom. Get started on the first task- probably a warm up. Do roll and lunch count.

How to prepare for the first day of substitute teaching?

First time substitute teacher tips:

1. Arrive early.
2. Bring your ID.
3. Ask the front office about safety protocol and other procedures.
4. Pick your clothing the night before.
5. Pack a sub bag of supplies.
6. Always follow lesson plans, policies, protocols.
7. Leave a note for the teacher.

What is the 10 minute rule in teaching?

The "10-minute teacher rule" generally refers to guidelines for homework (10 mins per grade level, e.g., 2nd grade = 20 mins) endorsed by groups like the NEA and PTA, suggesting limits to avoid student overload. However, it can also mean a classroom management technique where teachers change activities every 10 minutes to maintain focus, as students' attention wanes after that time. A related, but different, concept is the "10/10 Rule," which keeps students in the classroom for the first and last 10 minutes to avoid disruptions and ensure they get key instructions and summaries. 

What not to do as a substitute teacher?

Don't leave students unattended or unsupervised, as it can lead to safety concerns and disruptive behavior. Don't Forget to Follow Up: After completing a substitute teaching assignment, don't forget to follow up with the regular teacher or school staff.

10 TIPS FOR SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS & THINGS TO CONSIDER | Tips for Subs

What is the 70 30 rule in teaching?

The 70/30 rule in teaching is a guideline that shifts focus from teacher-led instruction to student-centered, active learning, suggesting students should be actively practicing/talking for 70% of class time, while teachers provide direct instruction for 30%. It also applies to lesson planning (70% activities, 30% content) and language learning (understanding 70% of content, focusing on improving the remaining 30%). This approach promotes deeper engagement, critical thinking, and skill application, moving beyond passive memorization. 

What is the #1 most important trait in a substitute teacher?

The number one common trait of successful substitute teachers is adaptability or flexibility, allowing them to quickly adjust to different classrooms, subjects, age groups, and unexpected challenges like missing lesson plans or behavioral issues, while maintaining a positive attitude and strong classroom management to keep students engaged and learning. 

What is the 10:10 bathroom rule?

The "10/10 bathroom rule" in schools means students can't leave the classroom for the restroom during the first 10 minutes (for instruction/attendance) or the last 10 minutes (for wrapping up/homework) of a class period, aiming to reduce hallway disruptions and maintain focus on lessons. While intended to create better learning environments, the rule is controversial, with some arguing it causes discomfort or forces students to miss crucial instruction, while others find it helps manage behavior and hallway traffic.
 

What is the 80/20 rule of teacher talking time?

Of course every classroom is different and not all classes have the same goal, but general rule of thumb is that teachers should talk 20-30% of the class time and aiming to have students talk for 70-80% of the class time.

How to be a fun substitute teacher?

Follow these tips to make your day of subbing great!

1. Arrive 15-30 minutes early. ...
2. Be professional in dress and attitude.
3. Turn off or silence your cell phone.
4. Read through lesson plans thoroughly.
5. Be interesting and get involved with the students.
6. Leave detailed notes at end of day with your phone number.

What grade is easiest to substitute teach?

High school is definitely the easiest. You usually just sit and chill while they work on an assignment. Very rarely will you have to actually teach them. They typically don't care enough to disrespect you.

What are the 5 P's of teaching?

While shared his ideas about the 5 P's of being a great teacher: personality, presence, preparation, passion, and professionalism. He recognized how humbling and difficult it was to to talk about teaching in front of so many educators in our room.

What to bring on the first day of subbing?

Checklist: 15 must-have items for your sub bag of tricks.

• Notebook.
• Pens and pencils and a highlighter.
• Spare lesson plans.
• Water bottle.
• Lunch and snacks.
• Extra clothes.
• Impromptu rewards.
• Games, activities, or a read-aloud book.

Is subbing harder than teaching?

Yes, subbing is often considered harder than regular teaching because substitutes walk into an unfamiliar environment daily, lacking established student relationships, consistent lesson plans, and established classroom management, forcing them to adapt quickly and build authority from scratch, while permanent teachers have routines, build rapport, and know the curriculum and school logistics. Substitute teaching requires immense flexibility, patience, and quick thinking, as students often test new adults. 

What is the 3/2-1 method for teachers?

The 3-2-1 teaching strategy is a versatile reflection tool where students summarize learning by listing 3 things they learned, 2 interesting things, and 1 question they still have, acting as an effective exit ticket or check for understanding after a lesson, reading, or video, promoting deep engagement and critical thinking.
 

What does ttt stand for in teaching?

Teacher talking time (TTT) is the time that teachers spend talking in class, rather than learners.

What is the 10 minute rule in education?

It states that "the maximum amount of homework (all subjects combined) should not exceed 10 minutes per grade level per night." The 10-minute rule evolved from a synthesis of many research studies about homework, especially work conducted by Harris Cooper of Duke University in the 1980s.

What is the silent teacher approach?

But what exactly is silent teaching? Developed by Caleb Gattegno and popularised for mathematical teaching in part by Craig Barton (@mrbartonmaths), silent teaching is a form of instruction whereby the teacher communicates only by doing things, that the students then watch and join as they catch on.

What are the 5 P's classroom rules?

The 5 Ps of classroom management offer a simple framework for expectations, commonly including Prompt, Prepared, Productive, Polite, and Positive, though variations exist like adding Patient or Participative; they guide students to be on time, ready with materials, focused on work, respectful to others, and maintain a good attitude, creating a structured and positive learning environment. 

How to clean potty in schools?

Begin Your Cleaning Regimen

Make sure to lift toilet seats and spray underneath at this stage. While you're waiting for the disinfectant to settle, now's a good time to check restroom supplies and restock hand soap, toilet paper, paper towels, and disposable seat covers as needed.

Can a teacher legally not let you use the bathroom?

It's generally not illegal for a teacher to deny bathroom use, as schools set their own policies, but it's considered a basic human need, and unreasonable denial can be challenged, especially with medical conditions (requiring a doctor's note) or if it violates state regulations, potentially leading to legal issues if a student suffers harm. While teachers have discretion, they must balance supervision with students' well-being; parents should contact the school administration if issues arise. 

How to be an amazing substitute teacher?

The following tips for substitute teachers can help you inspire your students and manage classrooms more effectively.

1. Focus on Building Rapport and Relationships With Students. ...
2. Get To Know the School System. ...
3. Be Prepared To Pivot. ...
4. Use Positive Reinforcement. ...
5. Proactively Look for Opportunities. ...
6. Get to School Early.

What makes a good substitute?

An effective substitute teacher must have high expectation. If you expect less effort you will receive less effort. You should work on an attitude that says that you know students can achieve to your level of expectations for the day or week, thereby giving them a sense of confidence too.