What is happening during the first ten minutes in classes? Are the teachers of would-be teachers doing the right things in starting their classes? Are they observing laws and principles for effective learning and activity management? The aim of this study was to describe what is actually done by faculty members during the first ten minutes in their classes and come up with an action plan to improve their activities. Using survey questionnaire, checklist, interview and focus group discussions, data were gathered and analyzed using simple frequencies, mean and t-test for dependent means. Results indicated that faculty and students recognize that there are activities that must be undertaken to begin the lessons. Likewise, the importance of having initial activities prior to the lesson was noted by both respondents. The analysis of result paved the way to the formulation of an action plan which was later implemented for the duration of six weeks. Results indicated that there was significant improvement in their teaching practices during the first ten minutes in classes after the implementation of the action plan. Further, a revised action plan was formulated taking into consideration the activities proven to be significant for both respondents. Theoretical and practical implications of the study were discussed.

Keywords: tertiary classes, would-be teachers, action plan, class activities, first ten minutes in class