Something amazing happens when the First Five is used in the first five minutes of class. It warms up the room, brings students together, and gets everyone talking and thinking. It sets the tone in all the best ways for the learning that follows. But even with a strong start, the next step, transitioning into that day’s learning, can feel like a speed bump. That is where intentional strategies like Bridge the Content come into play.
After a few fun minutes exploring the day’s edition of the First Five, use a short, intentional question to link the energy of connecting to the curiosity of learning. This tiny bridge can help capture the momentum and engagement of the First Five and transfer it towards the work to come.
If your students love the quotes or videos in the Character section, look for ways to tie that theme to what’s coming next. For example: “Today’s quote about perseverance reminds me of our science lab. How many times do you think scientists fail before they find the right result?”
Or if your First Five video centered on teamwork, try: “We just watched a great video about teamwork. Let’s see how many of those traits we can model in our group project today.”
This approach connects emotion to cognition and shows students that the First Five isn’t separate from learning — it’s the launchpad for it. Try this strategy this week and see if it helps move from connection to instruction.
If you already have a great transition you use with your students, please share your favorite transition ideas with us! We’d love to feature your idea in an upcoming edition. Because when one teacher shares good, it spreads. And that’s what this community is all about.
-Alan Krenek, COO of Edtomorrow