4 ideas for using Sora as a classroom management tool

No matter what grade you teach, you know that classroom management plays a huge role in your day-to-day plans. Classroom management is the process teachers use to create a learning environment that supports students and helps lessons run smoothly. There are many ways to manage a classroom; here are four ways Sora can help!

4 ways to use Sora as a classroom management tool

1. Transition time/morning work audio

   As a former elementary school teacher, I often found myself playing relaxing instrumental music during transition periods in my classroom and while my students were completing their morning work. This helped cue my students for what was coming next, keep the volume down, and keep them engaged. But why not do all those things with a story, instead? You can play both read-alongs and audiobooks from Sora that will not only help with classroom management, but will also keep them actively listening and learning.

2. Group/session work

   Small groups, anyone? This teaching strategy is a form of classroom management in and of itself. Students rotate with leveled groups to different activities based on the subjects they're learning. Add a Sora session to keep your students interested, engaged, and learning, no matter the subject! Students can choose to read an ebook or listen to and audiobook or read-along about a relevant topic. Sora can even be helpful in literature circles and help spark group discussions.

3. Post-test work

   Ever have that student who finishes a test and doesn't know what to do with themselves? They start looking around the room, tapping their pencil, humming to themselves, etc. Keep this student quiet and engaged with Sora. Set your post-test expectations ahead of time and watch as your easily distractible student remains engaged in the ebook or audiobook so that others can finish their work in a quiet, timely manner.

4. Read-alongs and audio/visual aids for struggling students

   We've all had those students who require extra scaffolding/support for lessons, and who will get distracted and not learn much if they don't have it. Use Sora as audio/visual aids for these students so they can stay on track and focused during your lessons. Sora's Notes, Highlights, and Define features can also help these students get the support they need.