What should instructors do at the beginning of each class?

Counting the number of participants at the beginning of each class is an essential practice for instructors. This process helps ensure the safety and accountability of all participants. By knowing how many individuals are present, instructors can identify if anyone is missing and can take appropriate action if needed. It also allows the instructor to gauge the class size for planning purposes, adjusting activities or managing space effectively based on the number of participants. This foundational check helps establish a safe and organized environment before diving into the instructional aspects of the class.

Other options, while important, may not be prioritized in every class setting. Setting the swimming level, conducting a safety drill, or reviewing previous lessons are key components of an effective lesson plan, but they generally follow the initial roll call to ensure all safety measures and instructional goals can be properly aligned with the actual class size.