The first day of class is an important day for teachers and students alike. What goes on in class this day can often set the course for the entire semester or year. Teachers are encouraged to be well prepared to cover classroom management items, set expectations for the class, introductions, handout relevant materials, create a positive learning environment and begin implementing the curriculum. To accomplish these goals, teachers must come up with effective first day activities.

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People enjoy talking about themselves, and students are no exception. Since English composition has curriculum focused on writing, a writing activity makes sense. Having students write about themselves on the first day accomplishes additional objectives: it allows them to share information so the teacher can get to know the students, doesn't require any outside reference and creates a positive learning environment by helping students feel they are important. It also gives the teacher a writing sample to use as a baseline for writing proficiency of individual students.

Ask Students to Write About Their Expectations for the Class
Teachers give students expectations on the first day of class. They often forget, or don't value, asking the students for their own expectations. Finding out what students expect from the class is an important tool that provides useful information to teachers, allowing them to better motivate learning, know what to focus on, quickly identify any discrepancy in expectations that need addressed and provide direction for effective instruction. Students benefit as well, they feel respected and writing their expectations sets the stage in their own minds for learning.

Team-Building Activities
Team-building activities can be quick and effective in establishing community and learning partnerships. It is important that students feel comfortable and safe in their new classroom. Often students are nervous on their first day and do not know many of their peers. Providing an opportunity to 'break the ice' will help students feel supported and included in this new environment. Some instructors use quick team building activities often referred to as 'ice-breakers' regularly throughout the curriculum. Teachers can find ideas through an online search or by referencing books at libraries or bookstores. These activities are often included in instructional design books.

Class Discussion
The first day of class can be an excellent time to get members discussing and ultimately thinking. A well-organized discussion can be based on other first day objectives or can be on a debate topic, that will provide students the opportunity to engage critical thinking and provide a topic for writing on in the next class session. While a discussion is productive and can be arranged to support a number of other classroom goals and functions, it also provides opportunity for students to get to know one another, for the teacher to assess students verbal discussion skills and thinking skills and provides an opportunity to start the curriculum quickly.