Today is April Fool’s Day and it’s a school day.
I know that a lot of teachers out there are dreading what might happen today. On a normal day, we can have our share of jokers in the class. This day can push them over the edge. So here is a game plan – get them before they get you.
I love pulling this one on my students. I make up a test of multiple choice, short answer, and word bank questions that have no right answer. I instruct the students to read every question before starting, making sure that the last question lets them in on the joke. Then I sit back and watch them squirm.
Morning Message
I’ve never tried this one but it seems like it would be fun. List all the students names on the board, and put random information next to each name – dates of no signfiicance, random letters of the alphabet (excluding A-F), compass directions etc.
Do not explain the list. If they ask you what it is, say, “I’ll explain after lunch.”
Send a Good Kid to the office
Prep a referral sheet with “April Fools”. Chew out a good-natured well behaved kid over something slight. Send them from the room, handing them the referral as he goes.
The Prank that Never Comes
Act like there’s a joke coming but never follow through with it. Mention the date a few times, look at the clock a lot, stop suddenly during a lesson and stare at the door, check you cell phone, and other such distractions.
Then don’t actually play a prank.
That’s Not My Name
When the first kid of the day calls out your name, tell the class, “That’s not my name. Come, on! We’ve been together this long and you still can’t remember my name!” Make up a name for yourself and totally pretend like that’s been your name the entire year.
Pretend it’s Halloween
Wear a Halloween costume and tell all the children they won’t get any candy this year because they didn’t dress up.
Do You Have Any Ideas?
That last one is absolutely hilarious. I don’t know if I could do that, but the thought of it has me laughing uncontrollably. If you have an idea you’d like to share, please leave a comment below.
Have fun and enjoy the day!