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What Materials Do First Year Teachers Need? [2024] ✅
As a first-year teacher, you’re embarking on an exciting journey filled with new experiences and challenges. One of the most important aspects of starting your teaching career is ensuring that you have all the necessary materials to create a successful learning environment for your students. But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine what materials you actually need. That’s where we come in! At Teacher Supply Store™, we’ve got you covered with our comprehensive guide to the materials that first-year teachers need. So let’s dive in and make sure you’re fully prepared for your first year in the classroom!
Quick Answer
Here’s a quick list of the essential materials that first-year teachers need:
- Teacher Planner
- Flair Pens
- Sticky Notes
- Astrobrights Paper
- Cardstock
- Laminator & Laminating Sheets
- Mr. Sketch Markers
- Reusable Dry Erase Pockets
- Dry Erase Markers
- Cordless Hot Glue Gun & Glue
- Timer
- Pencil Sharpener
- Stikki Clips
- Swingline Paper Cutter and Stapler
- Printer with HP Instant Ink
- Gift Card Options
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these materials and why they are essential for first-year teachers.
Teacher Planner
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A teacher planner is an absolute must-have for staying organized and keeping track of important dates, lesson plans, and student information. We recommend the Erin Condren Teacher Planner, which offers a variety of layouts and customizable options to suit your needs. With a teacher planner, you’ll be able to stay on top of your schedule and ensure that you’re prepared for each day in the classroom.
Flair Pens
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Flair pens are not only great for grading papers but also for adding a pop of color to your lesson plans and classroom displays. These pens are known for their smooth writing and vibrant colors, making them a favorite among teachers. We recommend the “Tropical Vacation” pack, which includes a variety of fun and vibrant colors to make your writing stand out.
Sticky Notes
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Sticky notes are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes in the classroom. Whether you’re leaving reminders for yourself, jotting down ideas, or creating interactive activities for your students, sticky notes are a must-have. We recommend using Post-It Notes for their quality and durability. Make sure to have various sizes on hand to suit different needs.
Astrobrights Paper
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Colored paper can add a fun and engaging element to your classroom. Astrobrights Paper is perfect for printing worksheets, signs, and other materials that need to stand out. It’s available in a wide range of vibrant colors and is compatible with most printers. You can find Astrobrights Paper on Amazon for around $10 per ream.
Cardstock
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Cardstock is thicker and sturdier than regular paper, making it ideal for printing items that need to last, such as flashcards, classroom decorations, and student projects. We recommend buying cardstock from Michaels during sales to get the best deals. Having a supply of cardstock on hand will ensure that you’re ready to create engaging and durable materials for your students.
Laminator & Laminating Sheets
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A laminator is a valuable tool for preserving and protecting important documents, flashcards, and other materials. It adds durability and longevity to your teaching resources. We recommend investing in a laminator for your classroom. You can find a variety of laminating sheets on Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy to suit your needs.
Mr. Sketch Markers
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Mr. Sketch Markers are not your ordinary markers. They come in a variety of fun scents that can make learning even more enjoyable for your students. These markers are perfect for creating colorful charts, posters, and other visual aids. They are also great for art projects and creative activities. Make sure to have a set of Mr. Sketch Markers in your classroom for a touch of fun and creativity.
Reusable Dry Erase Pockets
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Reusable dry erase pockets are a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of activities in the classroom. They allow you to insert worksheets, flashcards, and other materials that can be written on with dry erase markers. This eliminates the need for printing multiple copies and saves both time and resources. Reusable dry erase pockets are durable and can be used over and over again.
Dry Erase Markers
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Dry erase markers are essential for any classroom with a whiteboard or dry erase board. We recommend Expo brand markers for their quality and vibrant colors. Bullet tip markers are great for writing and drawing with precision. Make sure to have a variety of colors on hand to make your lessons visually appealing and engaging.
Cordless Hot Glue Gun & Glue
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A cordless hot glue gun is a convenient tool for any teacher who loves to create DIY projects and classroom decorations. It allows you to easily attach items together with precision and speed. Make sure to have a supply of hot glue sticks on hand as well. A cordless hot glue gun will become your go-to tool for all your crafting needs.
Timer
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A timer is an essential tool for classroom management. It helps you keep track of time during activities, transitions, and assessments. Whether you’re timing a group activity or setting a countdown for a task, a timer will help you stay on schedule and keep your students engaged. You can find a variety of timers on Amazon, Walmart, and Etsy to suit your needs.
Pencil Sharpener
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A high-quality pencil sharpener is a must-have for any classroom. It ensures that your students always have sharp pencils ready for learning. We recommend investing in a durable and reliable pencil sharpener that can withstand heavy use. Make sure to keep the pencil sharpener in a designated area and advise your students not to use it themselves to avoid accidents.
Stikki Clips
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Stikki Clips are adhesive clips that can be attached to walls, whiteboards, and other surfaces without leaving any residue. They are perfect for displaying student work, posters, and other materials in your classroom. Stikki Clips are reusable and can be easily moved and repositioned. They are a convenient alternative to tape and push pins.
Swingline Paper Cutter and Stapler
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A reliable paper cutter and stapler are essential tools for any teacher. The Swingline brand is known for its durability and quality. A paper cutter will help you create straight and precise cuts, while a stapler will keep your documents organized and secure. Invest in a high-quality paper cutter and stapler to ensure that they last throughout your teaching career.
Printer with HP Instant Ink
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A printer is a valuable tool for any teacher. It allows you to print worksheets, lesson plans, and other materials on demand. We recommend choosing a printer that is compatible with HP Instant Ink, a cost-effective printing service that delivers ink to your doorstep when you need it. With HP Instant Ink, you’ll never have to worry about running out of ink in the middle of an important print job.
Gift Card Options
As a first-year teacher, you may find that there are additional materials and supplies that you need throughout the year. Gift cards to office supply stores, bookstores, and other retailers can be a great way to ensure that you have the flexibility to purchase what you need when you need it. Consider adding gift cards to your wishlist or asking for them as gifts for special occasions.
FAQ
What does a first year teacher need?
As a first-year teacher, you’ll need a variety of materials to create a successful learning environment for your students. Some essential materials include a teacher planner, flair pens, sticky notes, Astrobrights paper, cardstock, a laminator, Mr. Sketch markers, reusable dry erase pockets, dry erase markers, a cordless hot glue gun, a timer, a pencil sharpener, Stikki clips, a Swingline paper cutter and stapler, a printer with HP Instant Ink, and gift card options.
Read more about “30 Amazon Must-Haves for Teachers in 2024 🎒📚”
What are the materials needed in teaching?
The materials needed in teaching can vary depending on the grade level and subject you teach. However, some common materials include writing utensils, paper, notebooks, textbooks, manipulatives, art supplies, technology (such as a computer or tablet), and classroom decorations. It’s important to consider the specific needs of your students and curriculum when determining the materials you need.
What do I need in my year 1 classroom?
In your first-year classroom, you’ll need a variety of materials to create a welcoming and engaging learning environment. Some essential items include classroom furniture (such as desks, chairs, and storage), a whiteboard or chalkboard, bulletin boards, a teacher desk, student desks or tables, a classroom library, classroom supplies (such as pencils, paper, and scissors), and organizational tools (such as bins and folders). It’s also important to consider any specific materials or resources required by your school or district.
Read more about “Free Stuff for Teachers …”
What are the 3 Rs for first year teachers?
The 3 Rs for first-year teachers are Reflection, Relationships, and Routines. Reflection involves taking the time to evaluate your teaching practices and make adjustments as needed. Building positive relationships with your students, colleagues, and parents is essential for creating a supportive and collaborative learning environment. Establishing routines and procedures helps create structure and consistency in the classroom, which is important for student success.
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Conclusion
As a first-year teacher, having the right materials can make a world of difference in your classroom. From staying organized with a teacher planner to creating engaging lessons with flair pens and Mr. Sketch markers, each material plays a crucial role in creating a successful learning environment. Remember to consider your specific needs and the needs of your students when selecting materials. With the right materials in hand, you’ll be well-prepared to embark on your teaching journey with confidence and enthusiasm!
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For more information on classroom supplies and teaching resources, check out our Classroom Supplies, Teachers’ Guides, and Teacher Planners and Organizers categories on Teacher Supply Store™. And if you’re looking for more must-haves for teachers, be sure to read our article on 30 Amazon Must-Haves for Teachers in 2024! Happy teaching!
Recommended Links
- Erin Condren Teacher Planner
- Post-It Notes
- Astrobrights Paper on Amazon
- Swingline Paper Cutter and Stapler
- HP Instant Ink
Reference Links
