Teaching tip Tuesday-My Friend Sociogram

School is off to a good start but as a teacher I always want to know how the kiddos feel about each other.  I can usually identify and have a feeling of the class dynamics, but am I right?

For many years I have done a class Sociogram Lesson. 

I start out the lesson by reading books.  Lately my books of  choice are No, David and David Goes to School by David Shannon.  These books are great  because they are high interest and the kiddos recognize all David's troubles.

Once we are done talking and reading the books, we make a chart about David. We don't list the negative behavior, but how to make it positive.
We have post-it notes with positive comments on the chart.

Now we talk about ourselves, are we like David? Or, are we like the kind words on the chart?  I suggest we look at the grid sheet I made up of everyone in the class.  I talk to the kiddos about the friends in the classroom and I want them to circle 5 kids in the class that are NOT like David, but are kind, positive, friendly,etc.  

They take a grid, go to their special spot in the  the room,  write their name at the top and circle with a red crayon 5 friends they like, and is a very good friend  to others in the classroom.   They may not circle their own picture.  I also tell them this is private and who we circle should not be talked about so no feelings are hurt.

How do I use the Data?

It never fails, I am always surprised!
I tally the data 
Put the individual data sheets in the conference folder.   Its a piece we discuss during the conference, are they kiddos mentioned at home,etc.

My part is crucial in helping the kiddos in my class feel good and make sure they feel a part of the group. How can I improve the relationship of the students in the class that did not receive a high score...

Integrating in groups

Praise

Set up situations that are positive

Table partners

This is an activity I do 3 times a year. The information  the sociogram identifies becomes important with some kiddos in getting outside staff to help the student in the classroom and it becomes a very good intervention. We assess kids constantly in our districts, state, and nation, but this is a simple assessment that gives information on relationships, self confidence, and self worth

I hope this Tuesday Teaching Tip is something you would like to try in your classroom.